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 started during the recent Bawku chieftaincy conflict. Many women lost their husbands and livelihoods. I witnessed their struggles and felt compelled to help. I began training them in peanut butter production, cooking oil, and rice processing. Seeing these women regain confidence inspires me to continue making a difference.

Explain your project.
My project supports vulnerable women affected by conflict. These women have lost their husbands and livelihoods. I also help other less privileged individuals facing economic challenges. I provide training in peanut butter production, oil extraction, and rice processing. These skills enable women to earn income and start sustainable businesses.

To assist with business startups, I supply essential raw materials like rice. This ensures beneficiaries have what they need to succeed.

Additionally, I offer financial training for managing earnings and saving money. I started a village savings and loans system for affordable financing. This helps women save together for business growth or urgent needs.

Through my dedication, I've empowered many individuals in the community. My efforts restore hope and build economic resilience.

How much impact has your project had?
My project has greatly impacted the community by empowering women. Over 50 women have been trained in peanut butter making, oil extraction, and rice processing. Many have started businesses that provide sustainable incomes for their families.

By providing raw materials and financial training, beneficiaries improve their living conditions. They can now afford essentials like food, education for children, and healthcare.

I established a village savings and loans system that encourages financial collaboration among men and women. They can access funds to grow businesses or handle emergencies.

This was necessary after many financial institutions left Bawku due to conflict escalation. Overall, this project has reduced poverty and created opportunities for many people.

It instills confidence in beneficiaries, allowing them to contribute actively to households and communities. The project lifts families out of poverty while strengthening the community’s social fabric.

How do you feel when you see the impact of your work?
I feel fulfilled seeing how my work positively impacts others' lives. It's rewarding to witness struggling women running successful businesses now contributing to their communities.

Each success story reminds me of my purpose in transforming lives using my skills. This inspires me to continue my efforts knowing it creates a ripple effect that touches more lives.

What challenges have you faced?
A major challenge is the lack of a dedicated training facility. I use makeshift locations for training sessions which limits participation. This affects the consistency of my programs.