Leaping Towards Financial Freedom – Building on the Success of Samburu’s Beading Mamas
The incredible growth and spirit of entrepreneurship in our micro-enterprise program continues to astound us day by day – and we’re so proud to share the latest news about the Beading Mama project, and how this inspired grassroots initiative increasingly benefits women on the ground!
The Spark of Change
For more than a decade, our endlessly creative Beading Mamas have been selling their exquisite beadwork to guests from all over the world at Sarara’s lodges and camps. Recognising the need to provide these enterprising women with structured assistance and support, we embarked on an intensive two-day training program which included everything from equipping them with financial management skills, to helping them open their very own bank accounts.
There was no shortage of excitement when 26 of the 27 arrived at Dalampo Guest House in Wamba on 4 October this year to start their tailor-made training! Under the expert tutelage of Mr. Joseph Lenakiok, various pertinent topics were discussed in great detail, and the women gained valuable knowledge about leadership qualities, the benefits of having a group constitution, and more.
A Community Comes Together
One of the highlights of the two-day training program was the formation of various groups – which were based on the areas where the Mamas live. Each group then voted to elect a leader – and appointed a Chairlady, Vice Chairlady, Secretary, Treasurer, and Vice Secretary. Putting what they had learned into action, each group also laid down the foundation of its constitution. This step marked a significant milestone in their journey towards financial independence and community development!
Beading Mamas vote for the leaders of their groups; and the elected new leaders, all set in their new roles!
With the help of three experts from Solution Sacco Wamba Branch (Jethro Lengo, Ken Githinji, and Emanuel Lepartobiko), the Mamas learned more about the intricacies of banking, as well as individual and group accounts. Some of the other topics that were discussed included:
the advantages of saving money
how to transact money and what charges are incurred
how to apply for loans and how loans work
the benefits of having shares, and
how dividends work
The enthusiasm among the women was palpable throughout, and all 26 present opened accounts with Solution Sacco.
The Solution Sacco team gave hands-on assistance – helping the Beading Mamas to open their own bank accounts:
The Future Looks Bright
As we wrapped up the training, a great sense of accomplishment and hope filled the air. Apart from being equipped with new skills and bank accounts, the Mamas were also inspired by the widespread confidence in their work – and they are ready to take their craft, and their lives, to new heights!
The Sarara Foundation’s Director of Community, Titus Letaapo, will now ensure that all the groups are officially recognised, which will further cement their path to success.
Overall, this groundbreaking training course was not just an event – it was a turning point for each of these women. As Nkatitio Lepirkine, the Vice Chairlady, expressed their gratitude, everyone felt a renewed sense of purpose.
The story of the Wamba Beading Mamas is a testament to the power of education, community, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. Together, they are making a difference, one bead at a time!
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