A Women’s Group Determined to Move Forward

Every Wednesday morning, a group of women gathers at the Kamwokya Christian Caring Community in Kampala. They come from different tribes, backgrounds, and life experiences, but they share a common purpose: to build better futures for themselves and their families. Together, they call themselves Basiima, meaning “They appreciate.”

Formed under the BELIV project, funded by Italian and US foundations, Basiima began as a group of 19 women facing significant challenges. Many were struggling with the effects of violence in their homes, poor nutrition, and little or no income. For some, even providing daily meals for their children was a constant concern. Yet, twelve months later, their stories tell a different story, one of determination, learning, and hope.

Through the Graduation Approach, 112 families have been supported with weekly coaching and training in financial literacy, nutrition, life skills, business selection, and business management. The approach enables families to build sustainable livelihoods, strengthen their resilience, and support one another both individually and through community groups. Basiima is one of these groups, demonstrating how practical skills, coaching, and access to savings mechanisms can help families move beyond vulnerability.

Using their collective savings, the women rent a meeting space for UGX 20,000 (approximately USD $5) per month, where they gather every week to save, learn, support one another, and plan for the future. Although a few members have since left, 17 women remain committed to growing together.

Their diversity has become one of their greatest strengths. By bringing together women from different tribes around shared goals, Basiima demonstrates how community and cooperation can overcome divisions and create opportunities.

For Jalia Nabukenya, the journey has meant rebuilding after losing her primary source of income.

“I owned a small grocery shop here in Kamwokya, but after it was closed, my income declined. The AVSI staff taught us how to start and manage businesses, and now my maize garden is doing well,” she says.

Like many members, Jalia was affected by a government policy that led to the closure of numerous roadside businesses, kiosks, and grocery shops. Through BELIV’s training and coaching, she was able to start over. Today, her maize garden is thriving, and her son helps her maintain business records, turning the venture into a true family effort.

Others have found new paths to financial stability.

Faiza invested in livestock and purchased a heifer, which she is raising in her village. Meanwhile, Grace Nankya turned to farming after a potato harvest was devastated by harsh weather conditions. Equipped with new knowledge about fertilizer use and crop protection, she has seen remarkable results. Her current crop is flourishing, and she expects to earn about $132 from each three-month harvest.

For Maria Namyalo, a small investment in poultry transformed into a profitable business opportunity.

In April 2026, Maria purchased 60 chicks at $3.40 each. After learning proper feeding and animal health practices, she successfully raised the birds and sold them only five weeks later for $10.60 each. The venture generated a profit of $383.

But Maria measures success by more than profits.

“Even when we no longer receive financial support from the project, I believe I will continue to grow what I have started,” she says.

Her growing confidence is reflected in her savings habits as well. Over eight months, she has saved $106, demonstrating increasing financial discipline and a stronger sense of security about the future.

The group itself is also growing stronger. Basiima’s share value has doubled from $0.26 to $0.53, reflecting members’ confidence in their collective savings and lending system. According to Jane, the group secretary, the affordable five percent interest rate enables members to access loans when they need them most. While challenges such as loan defaults remain, the group continues to learn, adapt, and support one another.

Yet the impact of BELIV extends far beyond income generation.

Many women describe changes within their homes that are just as important as their economic progress. Angella Nuwatwiine recalls how learning to appreciate and praise her daughter’s efforts transformed their relationship. By replacing criticism with encouragement, she noticed a dramatic improvement in her daughter’s behaviour and willingness to listen.

Nutrition practices have improved as well. After attending BELIV training sessions, Margaret Mukamubanda began including vegetables in every lunch and dinner. She had previously believed vegetables were mainly important for older people, but now understands their value for the entire family.

Today, she says, her children are healthier, stronger, and thriving.

The story of Basiima is about women discovering their potential, supporting one another through challenges, and building resilience step by step. Their experience demonstrates that when families receive practical skills, coaching, and opportunities to manage their finances, they can move beyond vulnerability and create lasting change for themselves and future generations.