Planting the Seeds of Change
Each of the 24 members of Dana Kuza Jamii’s VSLA began their journey with financial and business training facilitated through the Kuza Jami program. After completing the training, three members were each awarded KES 90,000 in seed capital to start individual businesses. But this was just the beginning.
Recognizing the power of working together, the group organized themselves into a VSLA, contributing KES 1,000 each per month from the modest monthly stipends they received through HSNP. For ten months, despite personal hardships and financial constraints, every member remained committed—building a group fund of KES 240,000.
“We support each other and have benefited through the Kuza Jamii and the seed capital helped us in obtaining a motorcycle and we get our daily bread through that initiative and also use some in buying shares in our VSLA group” Says Halima on of the participant of Dana VSLA
A Bold Investment for a Brighter Future
After months of sacrifice and saving, the group decided it was time to put their pooled resources to work. With a shared goal of creating a sustainable source of income, Dana VSLA invested KES 180,000 to purchase a motorbike—an asset that would serve as a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) in their community. With the motorbike generating approximately KES 500 per day, the group now earns about KES 15,000 per month, opening up a new stream of income that benefits all members.
The remaining KES 60,000 from their savings was equitably shared among the 24 members, with each person receiving KES 2,500—money they used to meet pressing household needs, pay school fees, or invest in their own small businesses.
Renewed Commitment, Renewed Hope
Emboldened by their success, Dana VSLA members made another key decision: to continue contributing, this time KES 500 per member per month. This ensures that even as the motorbike generates income, the savings culture remains strong, and the group can plan for future investments or support members in times of emergency.
“We are committed to this bike business and we are hoping to buy another one to give us some more income, we are thankful for Kuza Jamii for the grants” Says Halima beaming with a smile.
Lessons Learned
The journey of Dana VSLA has shown that:
Unity is strength: Working together amplified the impact far beyond what individual efforts could have achieved.
Small contributions make big changes: Even modest monthly savings, when consistent and well-managed, can lead to significant investments.
Empowerment through training is key: The business training received through Kuza Jami equipped members with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.
Resilience pays off: The dedication and discipline of Tawakal members have turned financial vulnerability into entrepreneurial opportunity.
Looking Ahead
Today, Dana VSLA stands as a beacon of hope and a model of what can be achieved when communities are empowered to take charge of their economic futures. What started as a group of vulnerable individuals receiving stipends has transformed into a united and thriving business group with growing aspirations. Their success proves that with the right support and a spirit of collaboration, lasting change is not only possible—it’s already happening.
Dana VSLA: From Stipends to Sustainability—Together, We Rise