Empowering Change: How S4T Transformed Nuri Hasan's Life

Written by Feyisa Chala, Chiro Woreda Livelihood Officer, April 2024

Nuri Hasan, a 38-year-old mother of four from Ijafara Kebele, Chiro Woreda, has witnessed a remarkable turnaround in her life since joining the Biftu Gudina savings group supported by RESILIENT-WE. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of community-driven financial initiatives. Savings Groups involve 15-25 group members who save collectively and take small loans from the savings. The S4T operates in 'cycles' of about one year, after which the accumulated savings and profits are distributed among the members according to the amount they have saved.

"Before joining the savings group, I earned a living by washing clothes for others," Nuri shared. "It was a tough time as the income was insufficient to cover the basic needs of my family, including food and educational materials for my children."

Nuri's circumstances began to change dramatically after she became a member of the savings group and received a 12,000 Ethiopian Birr (ETB; CAD $ 286) loan. With these funds, she started a small business selling essential commodities like salt, oil, onions, and peppers. "Now, I manage to earn a weekly profit of 1,300 ETB (CAD $31). Out of this, I save 250 ETB each week, and the remaining profit goes towards repaying my loan at 3,000 ETB (CAD $71.40) monthly," she explained.

The impact of the savings group on Nuri's life extends beyond just financial gains. "Previously, I had to buy goods from wholesalers on market days and repay them the same afternoon to ensure they would continue to extend credit to me. It was a relentless and stressful cycle," she recounted. "Now, I feel happy and confident, knowing I have reliable access to funds for my business, allowing me to plan and grow further."

Nuri Hasan confidently sells her goods at the Ijefera market, a visual representation of her newfound stability and success.

Nuri's journey illustrates how Savings for Transformation (S4T) groups like Biftu Gudina are crucial in empowering women, providing them with the financial means and confidence to transform their lives and secure a better future for their families. Through these groups, women gain access to capital, learn to manage their finances, and build sustainable livelihoods, breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency.