How MGEE Implements VICOBA in Esilalei
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Formation and Training of Women’s Groups:
MGEE brings together women from different age groups and backgrounds in Esilalei and helps them form VICOBA groups. These women are trained on financial literacy, savings culture, group dynamics, leadership skills, and small business management.
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Savings and Loan Schemes:
Members contribute small amounts of money regularly into a communal fund. Once the savings reach a certain level, women can apply for small loans from the group to start or expand income-generating activities such as selling beadwork, running kiosks, farming, or livestock keeping.
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Empowerment through Financial Inclusion:
By managing their own funds and making collective decisions, the women build confidence, trust, and leadership capacity. The loans come with flexible terms, and profits made from businesses help women repay their loans and improve their households.
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Support Beyond Finance:
MGEE also supports these women by providing mentorship, business coaching, and access to markets. They help connect women with broader networks where they can showcase and sell their products, especially traditional Maasai crafts.
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Impact on the Community:
Through VICOBA, many women in Esilalei have been able to:
- Pay school fees for their children
- Build better houses for their families
- Reduce dependence on male family members for financial support
- Advocate for girls’ education and fight against harmful practices like early marriage
The use of VICOBA systems by MGEE in Esilalei is a powerful example of how financial empowerment and education can transform lives. By giving women access to resources and knowledge, MGEE is not only improving economic conditions but also promoting gender equality and social change within the Maasai community.
