From Rice Trading to Building a Better Future: Rose Umali Invests in Her Family's Dreams

Rose is communicating with the DCDO about her rice business.

"The seed capital enabled me to expand my rice business and increase profitability. I have already purchased 10 iron sheets for my house and have begun saving at the bank to ensure a better future for my family," states Rose Umali.

Rose Umali, a Female-Led Enterprise (FLE) from Malemia in Zomba, exemplifies how access to seed capital can transform a small business into a pathway to financial stability. Prior to receiving this support, Rose had limited capital for her business.

With MK430,000.00 in seed capital provided by the Social Protection for Gender Empowerment and Resilience (SP-GEAR) project, implemented by CRECCOM, Rose invested in her rice business. This investment allowed her to increase stock and serve more customers, resulting in higher profits. These profits have enabled her to address household needs while making long-term investments for her family's future.

One of Rose's significant achievements is the purchase of 10 iron sheets, which brings her closer to enhancing her family's home. She has also cultivated a savings habit by opening a bank account and depositing MK20,000.00 from her business profits.

The iron sheets that Rose purchased.

These accomplishments signify her dedication to prudent financial management and long-term planning. Rose believes the business skills, seed capital, and support she has received have bolstered her resilience and set her on a path to sustainable livelihood.

She is optimistic that by continuing to expand her rice business and save consistently, her household will attain greater economic independence and gradually overcome ultra-poverty.

The Social Protection for Gender Empowerment and Resilience (SP-GEAR) project is implemented across all traditional authorities in Zomba, Mzimba North, and Mzimba South. Funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Ireland, through UNICEF Malawi, the project aims to transform vulnerable and labor-constrained Social Cash Transfer Programme beneficiary households into self-sufficient entrepreneurs.

The project collaborates with 640 Savings and Loan Groups (SLGs) and 960 Female-Led Enterprises (FLEs), providing seed capital, business development support, financial inclusion, and gender-transformative training to enhance household resilience and reduce long-term reliance on social assistance.