Until three years ago, Telibe worked as a smallholder farmer. We know that in agrarian economies, millions of families rely on subsistence farming for household food and income, like Telibe’s did. Not only is this increasingly challenging in the face of climate change, but without access to finance, training, or resources, how will they break the cycle of poverty?
Telibe’s family often faced hunger, and had poor nutrition, without a varied diet.
Telibe joined a MicroLoan group to access loan capital as well as business and agricultural training. She turned her maize farm into a profitable business. She also started a second business, using Irish potatoes. In a busy spot the roadside, she fries them in oil to create a delicious snack.
Each week, Telibe re-invests in her business, and makes savings too. Training with MicroLoan Foundation taught Telibe the importance of making savings in case of future hardship. This is something Telibe knows all too well, as a farmer. Frequent extreme weather fronts caused by climate change are unpredictable and can be devastating.
She recently invested in livestock – four pigs, and chickens too.
Telibe’s family no longer face months of hunger when the dry season starts. She also explained that she wants her children to complete their education. She herself missed a lot of school growing up, and did not complete primary education. Her parents were unable to afford her school fees.
Her daughter Sarah, aged 4, told us that she would like to become a doctor. Telibe’s eldest son is 21 and has graduated from high school.
Driven to build a better future for her family, Telibe continues to grow her businesses and her income.