WIDOWS IN CRAB TOWN CELEBRATE ONE-YEAR MILESTONE OF SAVINGS AND EMPOWERMENT THROUGH VSLA

Widows in the Crab Town community are joyously celebrating a significant achievement after completing their first one-year cycle of savings through the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) initiative, backed by the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation. The group marked this momentous occasion with a vibrant share-out session, as each woman received her hard-earned savings and a portion of the profits.

Launched a year ago, this VSLA initiative sought to empower widows with financial knowledge, foster a savings culture, and pave the way for sustainable income. These remarkable women have not only completed the program but have transformed their lives in the process.

“I used to feel helpless,” shared Kaday Turay, a founding member of the VSLA group. “I had no business and no idea how to budget or save. But this program taught me how to plan, save, and invest. I now run a small charcoal business, and today I received enough from my savings to grow that business. I am grateful beyond words.”

The share-out event was a celebration of resilience and reflection as each woman collected her accumulated savings and share of group profits. For many, this was their first experience of financial control and independence.

“I used my first loan to start selling vegetables,” explained Kadiatu Koroma. “It was challenging, but this group kept me motivated. Today, I send my children to school and provide for them without begging. This program restored my dignity.”

Hawa Bintu Dauda, Programs Coordinator at the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation, witnessed the impact first-hand. “This group of women embarked on this journey with nothing but trust and determination. They learned to save and manage money together, and today they are reaping the rewards. Beyond financial gains, this initiative has given them confidence, sisterhood, and a voice. It’s a successful model because it addresses the needs of the community.”

The foundation’s VSLA model emphasizes emotional strength, mutual accountability, and the transformative power of group solidarity. As each woman reflected on her journey, the resounding message was clear: they have grown stronger together.

Fatu Conteh, another participant, voiced this sentiment with enthusiasm. “We don’t just save money here; we support one another. We cry, laugh, and learn together. This program made me believe I can rise again.”

As this first cycle concludes, the widows are already gearing up for the next phase. Many are eager to reinvest their share-out funds into their businesses, while others dream of exploring new ventures. The foundation plans to provide additional training and resources to amplify their impact further.

With unwavering dedication and support, the Crab Town VSLA group stands as a testament to the power of community-led financial empowerment. These widows are not merely surviving; they are thriving, sending a clear message: with the right support, every woman has the potential to rewrite her story.