Umsobomvu Development Cooperation was established in 2001 by three unemployed women who had some skills in spinning, weaving and sewing. Today a total of 17 people are employed by this project, manufacturing wall hangings, floor rugs, woven blankets, mohair scarves, woven curtains, place mats, school uniforms and traditional attire. They also started a community garden to provide produce to the local market.
The Umsobumvu Development Cooperation exhibits their product at various festivals across South Africa annually, and are very proud of the quality of their products. The quality of their products was recognized by the Department of Arts and Culture, that resulted in a national award in 2005.
Grace says that the development of her community is her number one priority, and she therefore ensures that her staff gets trained in new skills all the time. The Umsobumvu Development Cooperation members strive to consolidate as a successful and sustainable Wool and Mohair Textile and Clothing Cooperative with a reputation for quality products locally and internationally. Their endeavour is to create even more jobs and contribute to the social and economic development of their community and town as a whole.
