Nimco Ali’s Journey with MicroDahab MFI Loans

For many women in Somalia, entrepreneurship is not just a means of earning a living — it is a way to provide stability and dignity for their families. One of them is Nimco Ali Ahmed, a mother of seven and the sole breadwinner for her household. From her small general wares shop in Bal’ad district, Middle Shabelle region, Nimco has turned her modest business into a source of livelihood for her family and others in her community, thanks to financial support from MicroDahab MFI through the Hiil-Haween facility which supports women entrepreneurs.

Nimco first heard about MicroDahab MFI’s loan services through a friend at a time when her business was struggling to stay afloat. “I had no one to turn to for help,” she recalls. “But when I learned about the MicroDahab MFI credit facility, I decided to try my luck.”

Her first loan of $3,500 enabled her to restock her shop and improve her product range. Encouraged by the results, she took a second loan of $4,000, which helped her expand into wholesale supply. More recently, she received a third loan of $4,900, further strengthening her business and improving her cash flow.

“The process was very simple,” Nimco says. “After applying for the loan, I only needed to provide my passport photo and guardian’s details. Once approved, everything else went smoothly.”

Today, Nimco’s shop is thriving. Her shelves are well stocked, her customer base has grown, and her daily sales have increased significantly. She is now able to comfortably pay for her children’s school fees, medical needs, and household expenses — something she once struggled to do.

Beyond her own family, Nimco’s business success is benefiting others. She has employed three people who help her manage the shop and distribution, and she provides a steady market for suppliers in both Bal’ad and Mogadishu. “I also support young entrepreneurs in nearby villages who buy goods from me at affordable prices,” she adds proudly.

Nimco’s story is a clear demonstration of how access to affordable finance can transform lives especially for women entrepreneurs who often face barriers to credit. She hopes to see MicroDahab MFI expand its services to more regions across Somalia so that more small business owners can benefit.

“I encourage MicroDahab MFI to reach other towns and villages,” she says. “There are many hardworking people like me who just need a little support to change their lives.”

Through clients like Nimco, MicroDahab MFI continues to strengthen local economies, promote women’s empowerment, and build resilience among Somalia’s small business community.