St. John of God Community Services Malawi

Together we are stronger.

The Self Help pilot was rolled out in 2010 in Mzuzu and there are now 9,000 women taking part in women's networks. This means that over 22,000 children are directly benefiting from this network. The goal of the self help group is economic, social and political empowerment.

How does it work?

Every week a group of 20 women meet, during the first meeting an amount of money would have been agreed upon to save each week. Loans are given to those women who request them and repayments are made each week on top their normal contribution and a small amount of interest.

The leader of the group changes each week, notes are taken and social issues are discussed.

Daria

Daria says ‘The future is bright! Now my dreams can go to the sky’s’

Joining in 2012, Daria who is very talented at upholstery but needed capital to start her own business. Once she got the loan Daria was able to sell her furniture at the local market. Being able to set up her own business has meant she can provide for her children. Business is going well  and she has been able to employ her husband and two local people to help her with her business.

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