Gender-Based Violence Survivors in Machinga Empowered Through Business Training and Startup Capital

At least 22 survivors of gender-based violence in the area of Traditional Authority Kawinga in Machinga are now able to send their children to school and run thriving businesses, thanks to business training and startup capital amounting to K150,000 provided by UN Women.

Among the beneficiaries is Amina Jackson, a mother of three, whose life took a drastic turn after losing her husband at the age of 26. Following his death, her in-laws seized her property, plunging her into hardship.

Her circumstances began to improve when the Spotlight Initiative identified her and connected her with a local village savings and loan group. Through this group, Amina gained access to financial support, community empowerment, and vital business training.

Today, Amina is harvesting more from her maize, rice, and groundnut farms—thanks to improved farming techniques introduced through the initiative. With the profits from her farm produce, she opened a grocery shop, diversifying her income streams and achieving financial independence.

Similarly, Mary James, a 66-year-old survivor, has also experienced remarkable transformation through the program. After being divorced by her husband, who went on to marry four other women, Mary faced numerous challenges. However, the training and financial support she received empowered her to rebuild her life.

This year alone, Mary harvested 100 bags of rice and 20 bags of maize, greatly boosting her financial security. With her earnings, she constructed a four-bedroom house—an incredible milestone after years of struggle.

The impact of the program extends beyond individual success stories. All 15 village savings and loan groups in the area collectively received K3.3 million from UN Women. Over time, these groups have grown their total savings to approximately K202 million, enabling many survivors to scale their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

This initiative highlights the powerful role that financial support, skills training, and community-based structures can play in helping survivors of gender-based violence rebuild their lives and attain self-reliance.

With continued backing from UN Women and other partners, the survivors in Traditional Authority Kawinga are optimistic about the future as they continue transforming their lives and uplifting their communities through entreprenuaship.