Somarela Matlakala protecting environment through dinkgwana

04 Jul 2024

A group of women in Motokwe has formed Somarela Matlakala group with the sole purpose of reusing waste paper to make dinkgwana (pots). 

 One of the group members, Ketlhoelwang Moreki, explained in an interview with BOPA that they saw the need to use the waste paper that was littering the environment. 

She said when they saw the opportunity, they met and discussed how best the paper could be put to use. 

Moreki said she and two other women, Duduetsang Moreki and Dorah Molematsela, agreed to form the group so that they could start the small business. She added that in an era where government continued to empower women and encourage them to venture into business, this was one of avenues to earn a living. 

Moreki said they used old newspapers, which they soaked in water for about three to four days after which they pound them. 

“After pounding them, the paper mesh can now be moulded into any shape of nkgwana,” she explained. 

Moreki said they used different household utensils to make dinkgwana which after drying are decorated  with soil to make them appealing. 

“This is the third year running showcasing our products in the Motokwe Agricultural Show and the response has been positive but we need more support so that we can sell to customers at a larger scale,” she added. 

Moreki decried lack of training on paper mesh which said limits their success as they are currently using their self taught skills and techniques.

She expressed their wish to  be taken for  training to enhance their skills. 

Moreki added that giving up was not an option for them, even though at times business did not go well. 

She revealed that Somarela Matlakala group also had plans to diversify and add more products made out of other materials such as glass and cans. 

She said for them to do that, they needed money and the necessary skills to venture into such. 

Moreki said they were looking forward to participating in the upcoming Ghanzi Agricultural Show where they would exhibit and sell their products. ENDS

Source : BOPA

Author : Booster Mogapi

Location : MOTOKWE-

Event : Interview

Date : 04 Jul 2024