Community members from Traditional Authority Mavwere in Mchinji District say joining village savings and loans groups have helped them become economically independent.
In an interview on Monday, one of the community members, Gladys Lyson, said she joined Alinafe Savings for Transformation (S4T) group in 2015 to save money.
“Joining the group also helped me access loans to start business. I have constructed a decent house using money from the business,” she said.
Another member, Catherine Kumanda, says she bought a bicycle which she uses to run different errands.
Alinafe Savings for Transformation (S4T) group secretary Siveni Chatewa said some members have constructed houses while others have accumulated assets such as goats, pigs and cows.
“People no longer live in dilapidated houses. They are building decent houses, thanks to the culture of saving,” she said.
Chatewa said the members are meeting the group’s goal as records show that the club’s savings have been increasing.
“In 2019, members shared K156 000 as dividends. In 2020, the club realised K180 000. In 2021, the members shared K200 000. In 2022, they shared K210 000 and in 2023 they got K245 000,” she said.
The club’s chairperson Floriano Chizumba said saving money has enabled members to venture into business.
“Some members are selling fritters, fish and fresh maize,” he said.
Chizumba said they are also building an office for their meetings and other activities.
