The crucial role that women play in modern society cannot be denied as powerful women play their part in the home, in the workforce and in the world, in an impactful and efficient manner.  In recognition of this, NBS offers women the golden opportunity to become homeowners.  This has caused great interest and excitement in the market in terms of housing delivery.  Furthermore, it is in line with the Society’s endeavour to break the bias around property ownership and rights to become the bank of choice for the women of Zimbabwe. 

We took a minute to talk to Miss Mildret Kujinga – Head of Marketing at the National Building Society (NBS) to discuss the exciting initiatives that the bank has this International Women’s Month around fostering empowerment and breaking the bias.

Q. Tell us about NBS’ Support for international Women’s Month 2022?

A. The National Building Society (NBS) believes in empowering the communities in which we operate.  As we celebrate women in the month of March we are saying ‘first for women’. NBS has put a disruptive strategy in place to reach out to women at different levels.  Based on our cultural belief that the woman makes the home “musha mukadzi”, NBS has taken the deliberate move to prioritise the women of Zimbabwe and extend mortgages and business financing on favourable terms in their honour. 

 Q. Can you share more on your exciting mortgages offer to ladies this Women’s Month?

A. As the leading provider of affordable home financing and a significant player in the housing delivery space, we want to empower the women of the country and help them to become homeowners.  There is no better way to celebrate women, this March and beyond.  This speaks to contributing to an end of women being marginalised in property ownership and property rights issues.  Moreover, it is about breaking the bias which is the theme of the 2022 International Women’s Day.

Q. You mentioned SMEs, please give us details on NBS’ attractive offer for women in business?

A. Research has shown that a lot of the SMEs in Zimbabwe are run by women.  Unfortunately, women are only venturing into small projects, such as selling vegetables and clothes.  NBS wants to change that narrative.  We believe that women are willing and able to start and operate construction and engineering companies or any other business that oversees major projects.  Thus, we are providing women with financial services opportunities to run well-established businesses that realise their full potential.

Q. How can Zimbabwean women take advantage of these empowering housing and business financing solutions from NBS?

A. Our Samora Machel Avenue branch has been set up as a financial inclusion and innovation hub.  This means that women from all walks of life can receive tailor made mortgages and business banking products and services.  By banking with NBS, getting a house is possible.  We have a variety of home financing offerings, such as the micro-mortgage and building finance.  Over and above this, we provide SME Silver, SME Gold and SME Platinum Accounts that can facilitate the growth of an income generating project into a big business. 

Q. In conclusion what is your message to Zimbabwean women this International Women’s Month?

A.NBS is committed to empowering our clients and the nation at large.  Thus, we are calling upon all Zimbabweans, especially the lovely women of this nation to become of a transformational and life changing journey.  Together we can build communities!

Happy International Women’s Month Zimbabwe!