‘The objective of our initiative is to challenge traditional gender roles and oppose the belief that only men have the aptitude to put food on the table… We must set an example for our girls by introducing different perspectives and thinking. And what better way to express this in our group than the saying haba na haba hujaza kibaba – consistent small steps, can accomplish a huge task. It can be done, And yes, we’re doing it.‘

Nyambura, Chairperson, Faith Abundant Women’s Group.

The Faith Abundant Women’s Group first formed in 2014. Today, the group has 23 members — women who have become close friends from Nakuru, Kenya. They meet twice a month, taking it in turns to host the meetings in their homes. Over 3 years as part of So They Can’s Wezesha Business Skills Project, they gained access to additional capital, and business skills training. In 2024, the group graduated from our program, stronger and more determined than ever.

The group now has KSH 150,000 (approx. AUD $1,610) capital — built up with regular monthly contributions, and interest paid on loans. Most recently, 4 women borrowed KSH 50,000 (approx. AUD$540) each. The 4 women have different plans for their loan: to purchase dairy goats (with profit for the milk 3 times more lucrative than cow’s milk); to start a second small business for income diversification; to add a cosmetics range in a salon to upsell to clients; to expand an existing clothes business.

The women have a long to-do list for 2025. Their plan is to purchase chairs, and hire them out for community events — given the large number of celebrations in the local area, they have projected this initiative will be profitable. With the profits, they have agreed that each women’s household will be able to invest in a water tank, and 2 goats. They will also continue to build their business acumen, through group business training in rearing chickens for income.

‘When we first started, we believed we lacked the abilities and knowledge that others had. However, through So They Can, we were offered access to the Kenya Agricultural and Animal Research Organization, a leading government body committed to agricultural, and animal research and development. We acquired the skills to make bread, rolls, cookies, pies, pastries, mandazi, samosas, and muffins. We have also received farming training through attendance at local agriculture trade and demonstration fairs, as well as group leadership training.’

Nyambura, Chairperson, Faith Abundant Women’s Group.