Courage, Dignity and Hope Despite Displacement
Three years ago, Kadi and her family we were forced to leave their village due to insecurity and move to “Town T” for safety. They left everything behind, not knowing what the future would hold.
Their life in the village was simple with no knowledge of business, improved agricultural practices, or gardening. It was only after arriving in town that their lives began to change.
It all started when local partner SEL came to talk about Village Savings and Loans (VSLA) groups. Kadi joined a 25-member group that was forming and was selected as an agricultural advisor. She received training and began applying the new methods she learned, including composting and zai holes, on a small plot of land. During the rainy season, she can grow enough crops to feed the family.
Last year, she took a loan of 30,000 FCFA ($60) from the VSLA group. She used the funds to buy fish and sell them at the local market. Each week she was able to buy food for her family from her earnings and still save 1,000 FCFA ($2) in her group. In the end, she was able to repay her loan and made a profit of 20,000 FCFA ($40). She used the profit to buy a sheep, which she is currently raising with great hope.
“The VSLA group has helped us tremendously, not only with food but also with our children’s education. I have a child who will take the middle school exam this year. In our village, schools were closed due to insecurity. Today in town, I am able to pay for his schooling so that he can continue his education. I plan to sell the sheep I am currently raising to cover his school fees. For me, it is not just an animal, but a source of hope for my child’s future.”
One day, a neighbor came to Kadi requesting a loan of 10,000 FCFA ($20), which she was able to give. The neighbor had previously refused to join the VSLA, but after seeing the benefits, decided to participate “This made me proud to see that our experience could inspire others,” said Kadi.
Later, Kadi took a larger loan of 100,000 FCFA ($200), which allowed her husband to start a sheep trading business. He travels to a far away market to buy sheep then resells them at the local market. Each market day he gives Kadi 5,000 FCFA ($10) to save and also contributes to their household needs.
”Thanks to the VSLA groups, I am now able to stand on my own and manage my life in town despite the challenges of being displaced. They have restored my courage, dignity, and hope.”
West Africa is led by World Renew and local partner Showing Everyone Love (SEL)