Have you ever wondered what Orant means? It’s not just a funny word - it has a deeper meaning that we’re telling you about this week in the blog. Read more about it here and learn where we got our name and why we are grateful for you, our readers, donors, and supporters, this week and always.
Microloans and Building Business Skills in Malawi
Magret's Story
Magret hails from Kachigamba village, Traditional Authority Chakhaza in Dowa. She is a current participant in our FEM for Women program, where she has received a microloan and learns about business skills.
Magret explains how hard life was before joining the FEM program. “My husband and I used to rely on piece work. As such, it was hard for us to make ends meet. There were days our children could go to school on empty stomachs,” laments the mother of four.
How does FEM for Women help with microloans?
Magret explains how she had always wanted to start a business but she never had the start-up capital.
Our FEM for Women program began in 2017 with the goal of supporting women like Margret who are stuck in a cycle of poverty. Women apply for a no interest loan that will be paid back in equal installments over the next four months. The money helps them buy more supplies to trade or otherwise invest in their small business. Then, they use the profits to improve their lives.
Magret applied for a 100,000 Kwacha loan which she invested in her powdered soap and tomato businesses.
“I decided to invest in two different businesses so that they can be supporting each other in case one business makes losses,” explains Margret.
How does FEM for Women help with building business skills?
What strikes her the most is that on top of the loan, she was taken through business training which has greatly helped her in running her business efficiently.
“Apart from the loans that we give to the FEM women, training is the most important aspect as it helps them understand their business environment and how to manage their businesses better,” says Tango Phiri, FEM program manager.
So far, with the proceeds Magret has made from her business, she has managed to cultivate a 2 acre field of soybeans and an acre of maize.
When asked about her future plans, Magret says she plans to grow her business in 2023 and use the proceeds to buy goats which will help her household become more financially secure.
For more stories from Orant’s FEM Program:
The Orant Journal
The Culture of Malawi: An Introduction to Malawian Proverbs
Malawian culture has always been known as a treasure trove of wisdom, and proverbs being an integral part of our rich heritage. These timeless sayings have been passed on through generations, offering guidance, direction, and warnings that shape our values, beliefs, and daily lives. In our upcoming blog series, we will delve into the world of Malawian proverbs, exploring their meanings, contexts and significance. Read today's blog post which serves as an introduction to our journey.
As Big as the Sky Book Review
Read today’s blog about the children’s book, “As Big as the Sky”, a Malawian story about a brother and sister whose love for each other is as big as the sky.
Orant’s Values
“Orant respectfully serves and collaborates with our community in a sustainable way.”
The Village Chief’s Vital Role
Ever wondered why we always mention village chiefs and their involvement in Orant’s work? If yes, then today’s blog article is for you! In this article, we talk to Village Head of Kasese Village in Dowa, who tells us about her duties and why her involvement with Orant is important. Read today's blog article to learn more.
The End of Plenty Book Review
Recently, we read The End of Plenty by Joel K. Bourne Jr. An honest and sometimes scathing review of the Green Revolution, this book covers how monoculture crops have led to worsening hunger across the world. As the planet warms, the need is ever more urgent for us to find a solution to humanity’s desperate need to feed 9 billion people.
Urbanisation in Malawi: MW2063 Pillar #3
As we have discussed in some of our past blogs, Malawi Vision 2063 has three key pillars that guide the focus of the Vision. These three pillars are meant to build on each other to create the inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation that they envision. In this blog, we will look at the third pillar of MW2063: Urbanisation.
Best Things to Do in Malawi
Whether you are planning an African trip or just curious about the things we love about Malawi, read today’s blog to see the best things to do in Malawi!
Holidays in Malawi
Holidays are here again and we are so excited! Most of our team is taking time off with their families and loved ones, so please enjoy this blog while we are away. Celebrate the holidays with us the Malawian way!
The Culture of Malawi: Malawian Religions
Introducing you to the culture of Malawi through a series of articles! The culture of Malawi is strong in spirituality and most people are active in religious groups. We’ll tell you about Malawi’s main religions and the people who practice them. Read on for more.