Rural Entrepreneurs Livelihoods Support Project

Dear friends and donors,

In my last report, I mentioned that we have completed beneficiary selection and was in the process of validating it and collecting baseline data. This exercise is now complete, and we have moved to the next stage; beneficiary training.

The past three months, our beneficiaries have undergone a structured and tailor-made basic business skills training provided by Street Business School. We adopted the training programme (eight modules) so that its relevant and easily accessible by the ultra-poor women we are supporting. Although challenging, the training programme was an eye-opener both for us and the women. We have seen incredible changes in attitude and enthusiasm shown by the women during the training and during their graduation. The women received a certificate as a recognition for their hard work and new skills acquired.

In addition to the training programme, the beneficiaries also received mentorship support, help with the formation of savings and loans group, group registration and opening of a group's bank account. Also, to help reduce anxiety due to loss of income during the training, we provided the women food packages which were well received.

We are currently assessing their existing businesses (those who are in business) and also map out livelihood options the women could engage in. Once business viability assessment is done, and the women's business knowledge is assessed as adequate, they will receive a productive asset in the form of live animals (goats, sheep cows), donkey carts, sewing machines and stock of goods for those who are keen to start or expand their petty trades. God willing, by the end of March 2020, all women would have received their asset.

We are excited by the changes we have seen so far as the result of the training and we hope that once the asset is transferred, the women will unleash their business acumen and start a sustainable business. Because we know in our community women have played a leading role in providing for their families, we are confident many children who would have otherwise gone to bed hungry will now be able to sleep well. We thank you for having been part of this journey and would love to see you continue with us to reach more women in a similar situation.

As we approach the #IWD in early march, let me take this opportunity to request you for your support as we prepare ourself for the Girl Fund Campaign. Please keep an eye on an email which will go out soon in that regard.

We thank you soo much for your support and generosity.

Thank you and may God bless you.