Women self-help group in urban Kenya

This campaign highlights the inspiring story of Warembo na Maendeleo, a self-help group of women entrepreneurs in Nairobi, Kenya.

Formed by three determined house helps who pooled their resources to overcome financial hardships, the group has grown to 15 members and now operates a community-driven microfinance initiative. This text aims to garner support for the group, enabling them to expand their businesses and enhance their financial independence through access to much-needed capital. Your support will help these entrepreneurs overcome economic challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

In the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, the Warembo na Maendeleo Self-Help Group was formed by three determined women to better their lives and expand their economic opportunities. This group of women, facing meager salaries and additional family responsibilities, decided to pool their resources, creating a platform for mutual support. What started as a small initiative of three has since expanded to 15 members, united in the goal of financial independence through micro-business and monthly contributions. Yet, low access to capital limits their ability to expand their businesses and improve their economic prospects, especially during challenging times like nationwide protests that have severely impacted their income streams.

Today, Warembo na Maendeleo seeks a KSh. 300,000 loan to provide members with small business loans ranging from KSh. 1,000 to KSh. 10,000. This loan would empower them to invest in their ventures, grow their profits, and ultimately achieve financial self-sufficiency. Each member commits to KSh. 2,000 in monthly savings, with a portion allocated toward business support and loan repayments. These contributions ensure the group’s resilience and sustainability, helping members access vital funds to fuel their entrepreneurial dreams.

We are dedicated to ensuring the successful implementation of our ROPE Management Strategy, providing the team-leaders with access to essential training and coaching to further her growth. This group exemplifies resilience and commitment to economic empowerment, as members manage diverse businesses such as milk distribution, vegetable sales, and beauty shops. Despite interruptions due to protests, their resolve to repay loans remains strong. Each member’s business generates an average profit of KSh. 5,000 per month, contributing collectively to a monthly income of KSh. 75,000 for the group. However, with access to additional funding, they could expand these businesses, enhance their income, and achieve greater financial stability.

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About Kenya

Micro-businesses play a vital role in supporting families and communities in urban Kenya, particularly in economically challenged areas like Nairobi’s informal settlements. Despite the country’s growth, entrepreneurs face obstacles such as limited access to capital, economic instability, and disruptions from social unrest. For groups like Warembo na Maendeleo, these challenges make it difficult to expand and stabilize their businesses. However, with community-based initiatives, access to financing, and skill development, these women entrepreneurs can overcome obstacles and drive sustainable economic growth, ensuring a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities

A Success Story: By Josephat LIGAMI, team-leader of Team Kenya, November 2024

During our recent visit, we had the privilege of meeting Madame Faith Muhonja, the inspiring force behind G and SHA Beauty Cosmetics business and also founder of the Warembo Na Maendeleo Self Help Group in Kawangware, Nairobi. Faith’s resilience and dedication to her community are truly admirable, serving as a beacon of hope and strength for those around her.

With support from our team, we provided Faith with a loan to expand her business. Despite the economic challenges currently facing our country, Faith has faithfully upheld her commitment, an achievement that reflects her determination and integrity. In a recent interview led by our Branding & PR team, Faith shared her story and emphasized the importance of community support in her journey.

As we approach the Christmas season, we are thrilled to announce an upcoming loan top-up for Madame Faith. This boost comes at an ideal time, offering the community a chance to buy her quality products, which will not only support her business but also contribute positively to the local economy. Our commitment to Faith goes beyond financial assistance. Through our ROPE Management Strategy, we are equipping her with essential training and coaching to ensure her continued success. We are proud to stand beside Faith and many other entrepreneurs, helping them unlock their potential and foster meaningful change in their communities.