Mary Karimi, from Kagimbi psychosocial support group, is a mother of three whose life has been transformed by the voluntary savings and loaning (VSL) activities her group practices.
Prior to joining the support group, her income was unstable. But after being trained on business ideas and the VSL model, Mary got the idea to start a small business enterprise.
By taking out a small loan from her group’s savings, she was able to stock up on potatoes and other items she needed for her business. She now makes and sells chips in the nearby market, which provides her with about KSh 5,000 a week (or about 45 USD). Of that income, she contributes KSh 100 (about 0.90 USD) to her group’s weekly savings collection.
This new income allows her to comfortably support her family and pay the fees for her two children who are in college and high school.
“I feel empowered as a woman because I can now meet the needs of my family without depending on well-wishers.”
Mary appreciates the support she has received from her support group and the training provided by Kiunga. She is optimistic that her children will complete school and be responsible people in the society.