Penduka Development Trust: Empowering women and communities

Kauna Mudhengi stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. As the general manager at Penduka Development Trust since 2007, she has dedicated herself to fostering economic independence and confidence among women, ultimately breaking the vicious cycle of unemployment and poverty. Mudhengi believes in reimagining women's confidence and sense of self through meaningful economic participation. "At Penduka, women are not just encouraged - but propelled - to take the reins of their financial destinies," she said. She understands that when women are economically empowered, entire communities thrive. One of the distinctive aspects of Penduka's approach is its utilisation of hand-intensive techniques with basic tools. These techniques enable the trust to provide employment and training opportunities to artisans who might otherwise be excluded from the job market due to factors like lack of capital, proximity to urban centres or background constraints such as living in rural areas without access to electricity and basic tools. By embracing these traditional methods, Penduka not only preserves cultural heritage but also ensures fair and sustainable employment for individuals and communities. Mudhengi's vision goes beyond mere job creation; she is committed to making long-lasting impact in communities by creating sustainable income and fostering inclusive growth for every artisan the trust collaborates with. However, Mudhengi and her team faced significant challenges during the height of Covid-19. Like many organisations worldwide, Penduka was hit hard by the economic repercussions of the pandemic. Despite these obstacles, her resilience and leadership steered the organisation through the crisis, and since then, business has been running smoothly. Mudhengi's journey with the Penduka Development Trust exemplifies the power of dedication, innovation and community approaches to fostering sustainable development. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and communities has not only transformed lives, but also serves as an inspiring example for others in the field of social entrepreneurship and community development. As Mudhengi continues her journey with the trust, her vision for a more equitable and prosperous society remains steadfast. Through her leadership and the tireless efforts of the Penduka team, countless individuals and communities are being uplifted, proving that with determination and compassion, real change is not only possible - but achievable.

Penduka Development Trust: Empowering women and communities

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-14

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Penduka Development Trust: Empowering women and communities

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-14

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