You might say it’s a dream, but I believe in dreams

One consequence of violent conflicts is that women often times become the sole caregiver of their families. It is not a traditional role for them, but one they must accept in order to survive with their families.

“You might say it’s a dream, but I believe in dreams”, said Esther Francis who is one amongst the IDPs living in Kogom Rak village, she has an innate skill for agro-business. When the violent conflict claimed the life of her husband, she needed to find a way to provide for her two children. She received a grant to engage in vegetable farming, which is one of the most viable businesses in her community. She initially started farming only pepper but after the financial education sessions, she decided to diversify her household income through farming of other vegetable (lettuce, green beans and parsley). This resulted in her making a monthly increase of N15,000 ($ 41.6). In her words, “my achievements thus far changed my perception about women in agriculture, as I am encouraged to guide other women who desire to go into farming”.

Mashiah Foundation with the support of the US Embassy, Abuja has supported 100 women in Jos South and Barkin-Ladi LGA affected by armed conflict with livelihoods grants to engage in different micro-enterprise.