Empowering Women to Thrive - Not Just Survive

When I started Black Mamba, I knew I wanted to work with women. As a woman myself, I’ve always been aware of the unique challenges we face - especially in communities where gender roles are deeply ingrained. But what I didn’t expect was how much I would learn from the women I set out to empower.

My journey with Black Mamba began with a straightforward goal: create economic opportunities for women in Eswatini. Financial independence is powerful - it can change lives, open doors, and give women control over their futures. But as we grew, I realised something profound: empowerment isn’t just about income. It’s about dignity. It’s about mental well-being. It’s about the right to joy.

Eswatini is a country where tradition runs deep, and patriarchy often dictates the rules. Women here are resilient, navigating daily struggles with a strength that’s nothing short of extraordinary. Many of them are the backbone of their families, working tirelessly to provide for their children. When we started working with smallholder farmers - most of whom are women - I assumed that financial stability would be the greatest impact we could provide.

But then I started listening.

Through countless conversations, I heard stories that reshaped my understanding of what true empowerment means. The women we worked with weren’t just grateful for the income - they were grateful for the community Black Mamba had created. A space where they felt safe, supported, and seen. A space where laughter and shared experiences acted as therapy in a world that often overlooked their struggles.

Mental health is a conversation often left out of the empowerment equation, especially in Africa. There’s a persistent myth that depression and anxiety don’t affect Black communities. But the women I met told a different story. Many had endured hardships in silence, believing their struggles were theirs alone to bear.

Working with Black Mamba changed that. They found comfort in the camaraderie of other women, in the simple act of sharing their worries while working side by side. The factory became more than just a workplace - it became a refuge. A place where voices are heard (often with laughter and singing), where struggles are acknowledged, and where support isn’t just financial but emotional, too.

Another unexpected impact came from our commitment to sustainable farming. We initially supported regenerative agriculture practices to ensure a steady supply of high-quality, healthy ingredients. But for the women farmers, this knowledge became a lifeline beyond business.

They began growing nutrient-rich food for their families, improving not just their income but their health. Mothers told me their children were eating better, feeling stronger. What started as a business decision turned into a shift in generational well-being - proof that empowerment isn’t just about putting money in pockets but creating long-term, sustainable change.

Empowerment isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s not just about salaries, job titles, or breaking glass ceilings. It’s about creating environments where women can thrive in every sense -emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s about recognising that dignity and joy are just as important as financial stability.

As Black Mamba continues to grow, so does our commitment to this holistic approach. We’re not just here to sell chilli sauce. We’re here to be part of something bigger - a movement that proves businesses can do more than just profit; they can heal, uplift, and transform lives.

To the women forging their own paths, lifting each other up, and demanding more for themselves and their families - you inspire me every day. Let’s continue to redefine what empowerment means, not just today but every day.