Striving for Self-Reliance through VisionFund loans

Carrying an umbrella, Christine came to meet us by the side of a road in Gashikiri village, in the southern province of Rwanda.  The rains had been late again but, on that day, it had been pouring since mid-morning. We followed her on the muddy path to her unlit house, where five children sat squeezed on a sofa.  

“Five years ago, we were barely surviving, and I was introduced to World Vision by the local authority who had identified us as paupers.  

They showed me how to raise cattle and grow crops properly and changed my mind about being a woman and an entrepreneur. I joined Duharanirekwigira Savings Group in 2017, the group’s name means strive for self-reliance. Since joining, I’ve received five loans.  

With the first loan, I bought a small rabbit. I now own 50 rabbits, a cow, 2 pigs and 3 goats! We grow vegetables on our plot and sell beans, sorghum, maize, and other crops locally.  We get medical insurance, and eat twice a day--mostly vegetables, especially beans and sweet potatoes, small fish, and sometimes meat. I can buy necessities without requesting money from my husband all the time."

Her husband, August, continues, “The rabbits are very important for us. Last week we sold two to pay for our kids’ school fees. We can now afford school meals for them (2000F/child/month). We want our kids to grow healthy, and we want to carry on expanding our business. We would also like to renovate our house. I used to feel powerless and desperate, now I feel empowered and hopeful!”