When Margaret Euren learned she was HIV-positive 7 years ago, she had no idea what to do. Thankfully, she met Lucy, a community health worker, who linked her to Isiolo County Hospital for counseling and treatment.
She later joined a support group in Epiding Village near her home. The emotional and spiritual support she received in the group transformed her completely and she was able to return to her normal life. Unfortunately, the group she was attending collapsed and without their support, Margaret defaulted from treatment until Kiunga brought the women back together again.
With Kiunga’s support and guidance, the Atotingas Psychosocial Support Group formed and they began saving money together as a group. Within a year, Margaret was able to take out a loan of 10,000 Kenyan shillings (about $85) from the group’s savings to start a grocery store. The business performed so well that Margaret was soon able to meet her family’s needs and repay the loan.
Atotingas Psychosocial Support Group meeting together.
Kiunga project officer, Leon, and Margaret’s support group leader, Lucy, visit her store.
Last year, she borrowed another 20,000 Kenyan shillings (about $170) to open a kiosk, and she has plans to continue expanding her business!
“If it were not for Kiunga, my children could not be in school.”
With the proceeds from these ventures, Margaret is able to pay school fees for her three children, pay her family’s rent, meet other household needs, and support vulnerable women in her community. She is a beloved member of the community and says she is grateful that Kiunga brought the group back together and trained them on new business skills.