Single mom earns living the floral way

FOR single mother, Agnes Muthaphuli from Makwarela near Thohoyandou, a better life means doing things for yourself.

Muthaphuli (56), says after her husband died in 2002, life was hard for the family and this is when she decided to start something that will put food on the table for her children. She has opened a nursery, which operates from her home.

“I started collecting various flowers from my neighbours and selling them, and I also planted some of my own,” says Agnes.

“One must not wait for someone to do good things for them, rather start something which will help to fight poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment. My nursery is literally growing from strength to strength. I grow different flowers such as crotalaria, bamboo, ficus and besmakia. I sell the crotalarias for R25 and the bamboo for R35. I have found that life has changed for the better for me and my children as I can put food on the table.”

She says some of her clients include schools in the Vhembe district, the University of Venda and local hotels and lodges.

“I encourage other women to get up and do things for themselves if they want a better life. God gave us hands and a mind to think. Life has really changed for the better for me and my children as I recently bought a car to deliver my flowers to customers,” she says. Muthaphuli says she can make more than R5 000 on a good month.

For those wishing to order flowers, contact Agnes at 076 197 6071.