The Zimbabwe Building Society again lent the co-op funds for construction, which began in January 1997. The final touches are now being added and members are moving in. Dorothy says women's participation is a key factor in the co-op's success. They are very organized and good at saving money. She is particularly pleased that women now occupy half the positions on Zvakatanga Sekuseka's board of directors and is quick to add that not a single member has defaulted on their payments.
Most households conduct small business activities to bring in extra income.
Stella Mavara and Catherine Chikwite sit busily sewing garments in the shade of a tree between their houses. When everybody has their house, we will build a shopping centre. The profits will cover other co-op costs. The achievements of Zvakatanga Sekuseka are not only apparent to those living there, says CCA country manager Geza Radu from his office in Harare. It stands as an example of good co-operative planning to the wider community.