The Cooperative was established in October 2009 by five women from Gugulethu. Some of the women have previously had their own small businesses but they came together because they thought that putting their resources together would make them stronger. They are now producing dog beds, pajamas’, conference bags, t-shirts etc. for different companies, retailers and organizations and the cooperative continue to grow. The women’s vision is to be able to employ other persons with disabilities and they want to develop their own products under the brand of Ukwakana.
DWDE has supported the Ukwakana Sewing Primary Cooperative in its startup phase with technical skills, business training, equipment and material and in the registering of the cooperative and opening of bank account. DWDE continues to support the women in getting all their administrative procedures in place, establishing contact with companies and retailers and giving them motivation when faced with challenges.
