A story from one of the Internal Savings and Lending club member who have benefited from the introduction of the savings clubs by Development Aid From People to People Zimbabwe under Child Aid project in Rushinga District, Mashonaland Central Province in Zimbabwe.
”I write to give my personal testimonies on Internal Savings and Lending Schemes. I am a father of three having an extended family that adds up to five. My burden was lessened when l joined Mukando (Internal Savings and Lending club) two years ago. I have managed to send my dependents to a boarding school. One is now doing lower sixth while the other is supplementing. This was a success due to Mukando where I used to borrow and pay back periodically. The burden was unbearable with my little salary earnings. I have managed to start construction works at my residential stand due to my involvement in Mukando club.
I have learnt lessons from this concept brought to our community by DAPP Child Aid Rushinga. I have learnt that collectively people achieve more by pooling resources together. Secondly the issue of family hood is promoted. One feels secure to belong to a group that has common goals. Lastly the issue of ownership fosters responsibility and development. People are bound by their constitution and they all work hard to fulfill set goals.
Finally may I site some recommendation from my experience. People can think big if they continue working together I feel people can embark on bigger projects like investing in housing schemes, rearing animals (cattle for example).
Communities can develop better when they set goals, plan for them, and work collectively to attain them. It is my humble plea that one day, through Mukando our societies will be better place for us and children.
Lastly may I thank DAPP Zimbabwe for the idea? “
