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From struggle to success: Esmy’s journey to resilience and prosperity.

In the heart of Group Village Headman Nkaya, Traditional Authority Nkaya in Balaka District, lives Esmy Edward, a 44-year-old single mother of five children. Esmy`s journey is a testament to resilience, empowerment and the transformative power of community development initiatives.

Not long ago, Esmy faced overwhelming challenges. "Life used to be tough," she recalls. "Providing food and paying school fees for my two sons in secondary school felt impossible."

Esmy experienced a significant transformation in her life after becoming part of the Enhancing Climate Resilience for Improved Income and Food Security (ECRIF) project.

Through the project, Esmy learnt about Village Savings and Loans (VSL), a model that introduced her to effective financial management and business skills. She also received training on gender concepts and modern farming techniques, equipping her with the knowledge to transform her life. As part of the program, Esmy was provided with five goats. Today, her herd has grown to ten, thanks to her diligent care and the sustainable practices she adopted.

Esmy`s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed. Leveraging the VSL concepts, she started a fish business and ventured into tailoring. "Through my fish business alone, I make a profit of K300,000," she shares proudly.

This income has enabled her to cover the school fees for her two sons, paying K40,000 for one and K35,000 for the other, ensuring they can continue their education without interruptions.

Esmy`s success extends beyond business. Goat farming has provided her with organic manure, which she uses to improve her farm`s productivity. Her thriving farm now ensures that food security is no longer a worry for her family.

"I am grateful for the support I have received," Esmy says. "Now, I can provide for my children and I envision maintaining my house and seeing my sons finish school without difficulties."

Esmy's story highlights the impact of the ECRIF project, which focuses on building climate resilience, improving income and ensuring food security for families in Traditional Authority Nkaya, Balaka District. With continued support, participants like Esmy are transforming their lives and creating brighter futures for their communities.

Through initiatives like ECRIF, the path from struggle to success becomes clearer, one empowered individual at a time.

We are implementing the project in Traditional Authority Nkaya, Balaka district with support from the Canadian Food Grains Bank through the Presbyterian World Service and Development.