Despite being overlooked by many, tea selling business has managed to turn around the economic status of a Lilongwe based woman, Mtiuze Chapondera.
Based in Chimwendo village in the area of Traditional Authority Masumbankhunda, Chapondera’s tea selling business has become a beacon of hope and economic stability for her family.
She has told ProjectM in an interview that she established her Tea Room in 2023 with a modest capital of K200 thousand.
“A huge part of that capital came from social cash transfer, a project being facilitated by government,” Chapondera said.
Several months down the line, Chapondera’s tea room has thrived, selling an impressive average of 153 cups of tea and seven trays of scones per day.
“And this is not a small feat considering the competitive nature of the food business,” said Chapondera.
The mother of three has further indicated that on average, she is taking home K220 thousand per month.
“And this is a significant amount considering the initial capital I invested in the business,” She added.
Her vision is to establish similar ventures across her community.
Women rights activist Memory Chisenga has hailed Chapondera, labeling her as visionary.
“She is an inspiration to many especially women, who are hoping to start their own businesses,” said Chisenga.
