A recurring request from many of the women at YADA is for a loan to start a small business (such as selling tomatoes, charcoal, vegetables). So many organisations give out these loans without any training or accountability and the majority of these small business fail. In February Ezechiel invited all of those seeking a loan to join a week of training that he has been developing with the help of others working in the NGO sector, business men and pastors. Over the course of the week participants were taught on What the Bible Says About Money, Business management skills, SWOT analysis, How to write a business plan and they were given practical scenarios to work through. At the end of the week candidates were invited to write and submit a business plan. Only 5 were chosen as this is a pilot project. What makes this project unique and hopefully very successful is that each person receiving a loan will be mentored by a coach (giving their time freely). The coaching started this week, see photos below.
Another exciting event over March was celebrating International women’s day. Every year the government design and print Igitenge (material). It was a delight to be able to give a piece of this to all the families and staff. Even better that we were able to celebrate the day with another organisation working within the community (not many want to collaborate). Lots of dancing and singing! (See pictures below).
Like many countries around the world right now we are facing a fair few challenges. Recently decisions have been made that significantly affect all who live in the city especially. Decisions that impact thousands and thousands of people with dire consequences for the most vulnerable. The details of which i cant share here. Some of these decisions may be necessary long term however there has been no process to them or solutions given to help people. This has left many angry and hopeless. For various reasons there has been an extremely limited amount of petrol and diesel countrywide which is causing all sorts of chaos and frustration. If it is available somewhere then one can expect to wait between 5-10 hours to get it. Please pray with us for resolution and peace in these situations.
Please join with us in:
1. Thanks for a great Financial Education training
2. Thanks for a very successful International Women’s Day event
3. Thanks for a wonderful time with mum and dad.
4. Thanks that our board meeting was very productive and encouraging
5. Prayer for the women who will begin to set up their small business and the coaches walking alongside them.
6, Prayer for continued collaboration with others working in the community.
7. Prayer for the country.
Thank you so much for your faithful prayers and support it is very much appreciated! We wish you a very Happy Easter!