SIPHOFANENI FOLK: RH FASHION HEAVEN SENT

SIPHOFANENI – “The opening of RH Fashion has changed my life in a big way.” This statement was made by Bonakele Shongwe when talking about the new textile firm, which opened its door in Siphofaneni about a month ago.

Siphofaneni is a small town situated 40 kilometres south of Manzini city.
Shongwe is one of many people who have been recently employed by RH Fashion.
Before joining the new firm, Shongwe said she was unemployed after quitting her old job.

“I was working in Matsapha – in the same textile industry. When I heard stories that a new firm would be established in my hometown, I decided to resign.
“I stayed at home for a few weeks before I went to look for employment. And fortunately I got the job,” she said.
The mother of two explained that she was now able to feed her family better.

Elaborating, Shongwe said when she was working in Matsapha a huge portion of her salary went to rent.
“The rent was E650 plus E150 for water. I also had to purchase grocery for myself in Matsapha and for my family here (Siphofaneni).
“Now, I’m using the E650 to top up on family groceries. The rest I’m saving for my two children,” she said with a smile.
Adding, she said she now had more time to spend with her children and family.

The 40-year-old Shongwe stressed that it was important to spend quality time with loved ones.
Besides, she said she was now able to monitor her children’s schoolwork on a daily basis.
Meanwhile, Sipho Gamedze described the establishment of RH Fashion as a Godsend.

In substantiating his statement, Gamedze said he had been unemployed for almost two years. After completing high school, Gamedze said he scouted for employment in different industries. These included the public transport, security, retail and the textile industries.

“I worked in a grocery shop for a few months before quitting because the pay was not good. I was getting about E800 per month. I believe that was too little to feed eight people,” he said.

Gamedze mentioned that he had to take care of his elderly parents, siblings and child with the salary.
After buying food and a few things for the family, Gamedze said he would have to approach a shylock for rent and transport.

“Come the following month, I had to settle the debt first before buying food for the family. After that I had to borrow again. I believe I was better without a job,” he said. While at home, he stated that he would get piece jobs such as clearing yards, cutting fire-wood and also loading and off-loading river sand from trucks. “When I heard that a new factory was coming to Siphofaneni, I said to myself I want to be part of the first batch to be employed. I believe that my life will change for the better,” he said. Sharing the same sentiments with Shongwe, the 23-year-old Gamedze said with RH Fashion being in close proximity to his homestead, there would be no need to rent.

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