I never Imagined I could One Day Build My Own Livestock Business

Before the loan, Hawo Abdi’s life was a daily struggle. She did odd jobs to feed her children and ensure they did not miss school. Some days, there wasn’t enough for a full meal. She dreamed of starting a livestock business but with no savings and no collateral, it seemed impossible.

She also lacked the business knowledge to get started. Though determined, she had never managed money or run a business before. But when she heard about a microfinance program supporting women like her, she saw a chance. The program offered small loans but Hawo and other first-time applicants had to undergo some basic training.

Hawo learned how to budget, manage risk, and plan her business. She joined a group of other women who co-guaranteed each other’s loans. It wasn’t easy. Taking a loan felt risky but the desire to succeed kept her going. With a $150 from MicroDahab MFI, she bought two goats and chicken feed. She juggled caring for her livestock with raising her children. Her animals grew, multiplied, and began to bring in income.

She sold milk and young goats at the market, slowly building up her earnings. She faced challenges including livestock diseases, price declines, and drought. But with each challenge, she adapted. She vaccinated her animals, learned when to sell, and started saving. She repaid her loan in full and took another, larger one.

Today, Hawo runs a growing livestock business. Her children are in school. She’s building a house. Other women in her village come to her for advice. Hawo’s success wasn’t handed to her. She fought for it-overcoming poverty, lack of education, financial exclusion, and fear. The loan gave her a start, but it was her courage, hard work, and the support of her community that carried her through. Now, she’s not just surviving. She’s thriving and helping others rise with her.