Success Story 5: From Debt Cycles to Business Growth

Abalayine, a groundnut paste and kulikuli processor from Zuarungu Zono, participated in the business and financial literacy training organised by the Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) in partnership with the KGL foundation. Prior to the training, she relied heavily on taking ground nuts on credit. After sales, she often struggled to repay her suppliers and frequently ended the day without any profit, keeping her business trapped in a cycle of debt.

Through the training, Abalayine learned the importance of separating business capital from sales revenue. She now sets aside money daily to repay her suppliers and reinvests part of her earnings into purchasing additional ground nuts. As a result, she has increased her savings and can now pay up to half of the cost of her groundnuts upfront, significantly reducing her dependence on credit and strengthening her bargaining position with suppliers.

In addition to improving her business practices, Abalayine used her VSLA share-out savings to purchase a goat as a productive asset, providing long-term financial security for her household.

The training also addressed personal well-being and self-care. Abalayine previously suffered from severe waist pain due to long hours of work without rest. After learning about the importance of rest and simple daily exercises, she adopted healthier routines. She reports that her waist pain has reduced significantly, allowing her to work more comfortably and remain productive.

Abalayine describes the training as transformative, helping her transition from survival-based trading to a more stable, growing business while also improving her physical well-being and overall quality of life.

This story demonstrates how practical financial skills combined with health awareness can break debt cycles and support sustainable livelihoods.