Crop production is my family’s only source of income. Limited farmland and unpredictable weather conditions meant that we didn’t produce enough to feed the family and cover our expenses” explained 36-year-old Rahima Marsa.
Since taking part in BER phase II project, Rahima has maintained a stable income. “My husband was the only one providing for the family. I had to ask him for money, even for small household expenses. Things started to change after I joined the project and received training.” “I was trained in basic business skills, which was an eye-opening experience. The training taught me how to save and do business. It helped me generate and grow business ideas. I agreed with my husband to join a VSLA and, using our small income, started saving on a regular basis from our small earnings.” “I then started fattening and selling sheep. I only had two sheep when I started. The profit I gained inspired me to move forward. I have now managed to increase the size of my herd to seven sheep.” This is only one of Rahima’s fruitful enterprises. Overcoming her challenges with the skills she gained through basic business skills training, Rahima has now deposited a good amount of money in her account: 9,000.00 Birr. “Two years ago, the prospect of me owning several small businesses would have been unthinkable. Now,
I am looking far beyond my limitations. My total capital has reached 35,000.00 and I am thinking of buying a house in Dodola Town. I am happy I can support my family. I no longer worry about providing school materials for our children’’.