Across the rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal, women are transforming not only their own lives but also the future of their families and communities. Through the Fidelity Foundation’s partnership with Thanda, women are gaining the knowledge, skills and support needed to strengthen food security, embrace sustainable farming practices and become leaders within their communities.

Operating in the rural communities of the Umzumbe Municipality, Thanda delivers integrated programmes focused on food security, youth development and economic empowerment. Many of the programme participants are women leading households while navigating the daily realities of poverty, unemployment and food insecurity.

With the support of the Fidelity Foundation, women participating in the programme receive agricultural training, mentorship, business development support, seedling distribution and education in sustainable farming practices. These interventions enable participants to move beyond subsistence farming towards productive, income-generating agricultural enterprises that improve both household nutrition and financial stability.

The programme’s impact continues to grow. During 2025 alone, it supported 6,986 direct household beneficiaries across multiple wards, facilitated 125 learning circles, and conducted more than 2,430 mentor visits. Agricultural production exceeded R9.4 million, with 85% of the produce consumed within beneficiary households, making a meaningful contribution to food security and improved nutrition in vulnerable communities.

While these figures demonstrate the programme’s reach, its greatest impact lies in the women whose lives have been transformed. Across the region, women are stepping into leadership roles, mentoring emerging farmers, managing productive household gardens and inspiring the next generation of girls to believe in their own potential. By fostering self-reliance and building practical skills, the programme is creating lasting opportunities that extend well beyond the farm.

“At Fidelity Foundation, we believe that investing in women is one of the most effective ways to strengthen communities,” says Wahl Bartmann, Director of the Fidelity Foundation. “When women are equipped with the skills, confidence and opportunities to succeed, the benefits extend far beyond individual households. Stronger families, improved food security and more resilient communities are the result.”

The Fidelity Foundation’s partnership with Thanda demonstrates the far-reaching impact of investing in women. By creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and community leadership, the programme is helping to build healthier households, stronger local economies and more resilient rural communities.

This Women’s Month, the Fidelity Foundation celebrates the women whose determination, resilience and leadership continue to create lasting change. Their stories are a powerful reminder that empowering women is not only about advancing equality—it is about building stronger, more sustainable communities for generations to come.