Sakina Mumuni reaches MTN Heroes of Change top 10, By empowering women with agro processing skills, resources

Nominee: Sakina Mumuni, 35-years-old
Occupation: Farmer/Trader
Town: Bawku Municipal
Project: Agro Processing/VSAL
Source of funds: Personal
Category: Economic Empowerment

What is your motivation?
My motivation began during the height of the recent Bawku chieftaincy conflict when many women lost their husbands and livelihoods. 

Witnessing their struggles, I felt compelled to act. I started training them in peanut butter production, cooking oil and rice processing to help them rebuild their lives. 

Seeing these women regain confidence, provide for their families and support others keeps me inspired to continue making a difference.
Explain your project
My project aims to support vulnerable women, particularly those affected by conflict who have lost their husbands and livelihoods. However, I also extend my help to other less privileged individuals in the community facing economic challenges. 
I provide training in peanut butter production, oil extraction and rice processing. These skills help women earn income and start sustainable small businesses, promoting self-reliance.

Also, to assist with business startups, I sometimes supply essential raw materials such as rice, ensuring beneficiaries have what they need to succeed.

In addition, I offer financial training to help beneficiaries manage their earnings, save money and reinvest in their businesses. I also started a village savings and loans system, which allows women to save together and access affordable financing for business growth or urgent needs.

Through my dedication and innovative approaches, I have empowered many individuals, restored hope and built economic resilience in the community. My efforts continue to inspire and uplift those in need.

How much impact has your project had?
My project has greatly impacted the community by empowering women and changing lives. Over 50 women (mostly widows and unskilled/unemployed women) have been trained in making peanut butter, extracting oil and processing rice. Many have started their businesses, earning sustainable incomes to support their families.

By providing raw materials such as rice and financial training, beneficiaries have improved their living conditions. They can now afford essentials such as food and education for their children and healthcare.

I established a village savings and loans system that encourages financial collaboration. Beneficiaries (men and women) can access funds to grow their businesses or handle emergencies, promoting financial stability in the community. This was necessary after lots of financial institutions had exited Bawku since the escalation of the conflict.

Overall, this project has reduced poverty and created opportunities for many people. It has instilled confidence and hope in beneficiaries, allowing them to contribute actively to their households and communities.

The project has not only lifted families out of poverty but also strengthened the community’s social and economic fabric, empowering women to lead dignified lives and fostering resilience in these challenging times.

How do you feel when you see the impact your work has had?

•    I feel fulfilled and grateful to see how my work positively impacts the lives of others. It's rewarding to witness women who once struggled now running successful businesses and contributing to their communities.

Each success story and smile from those I have supported reminds me of my purpose and the importance of using my social status and acquired skills to transform lives. This inspires me to continue my efforts, knowing it creates a ripple effect that touches even more lives.

   What challenges Have you faced?
 A major challenge is the lack of a dedicated training facility. I have to use makeshift locations for training sessions, which limits the number of women I can train and this affects the consistency of my programmes.