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Empowering Women Through Village Savings and Loans
Author: Praises Padambo
Empowering Women Through Village Savings and Loans (VSLs)
In a world filled with uncertainties, the importance of savings can never be overemphasized. For rural women in particular, the risks of economic uncertainty can be devastating. However, there is a solution that has proven to be a game-changer for many: savings. At Orant, we are dedicated to empowering women through our Village Savings and Loan (VSL) program. This initiative has greatly transformed the lives of our FEM women, providing them with a platform to save, invest, and achieve their goals.
While providing loans and training to our FEM women is very important, we recognize that it’s only half the solution. Financial challenges can unexpectedly arise and threaten to derail their businesses. As a solution, we designed our Village Savings and Loans (VSLs) program as a proactive measure to shield them against such challenges. By saving collectively, these women can use these saving during difficult times, ensuring business continuity and their economic stability. This approach not only fosters a culture of savings but also empowers our women to take control of their financial futures.
Debora Mawuagule, a VSL member, shared, “I saved a total of 105,000 MWK ($60.47 USD) this year. But for me, what matters most is the access to loans that helped me through tough times. The share-out has also come in handy for my farm needs, ensuring food security for my household.”
How Do Orant’s VSLs Work?
Women meet weekly to make contributions, starting from as low as 1,000 MWK ($0.58 USD). From the savings, members can access loans at 20% interest which is counted as an individual contribution and is paid back at the individual’s pace. These loans then are used to boost business capital, address emergencies, or achieve long-term goals.
“This year has been exceptionally challenging for business owners like myself, with constant price rises in the market. The VSLs have been a lifeline for us to stay in business. I would get soft loans to supplement my capital when commodity prices change,” says Edilina Joshua.
Migail Mpango, owner of a local grocery shop, echoes Edilina’s sentiments, “Our VSL savings are particularly valuable during peak seasons like December, when festivals like Christmas drive up demand for goods. With our savings, we can ensure a steady supply of products to meet our customers’ needs.”
What strikes our women the most is the emergency savings option that the VSLs have which they can tap into in cases of emergencies like illnesses.
As we witness our FEM women thrive, we are hoping for even a brighter future for their families. We are also grateful for the untiring support of our generous donors, whose contributions have turned these women’s dreams into reality, bringing joy to their families.
Want to learn more about our FEM program and how you can make a difference? Visit https://orantcharitiesafrica.org/fem-for-women/
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