When a woman’s husband dies in Tanzania and if she cannot then provide for herself, the husband’s family has the right to take possession of her home and belongings. The widow then becomes a servant for her deceased husband’s family or is left to shift for herself. Orphans Africa is committed to improving the lives of widows through providing them with opportunities for business development, leading to self-sufficiency.
Since 2007, OA has accomplished the following with respect to helping the widows of Tanzania:
Provided a microloan to a widow to open her own “Duka la Dawa,” a pharmacy. Income from the pharmacy enables the widow to pay her rent, send her children to school, as well as live comfortably. (Click here to see a video about Mama Aisha’s new business.)
Provided funds to widows in the remote Mbeya District. With this money the widows purchased eight pregnant sows. With an average sow producing approximately 16 piglets per year, this is an investment that will keep on giving. Pigs are hardy and require very little space. Not only will the widows be able to sell their pigs at the market, but the pigs will provide them and their families with much-needed protein.
Provided start-up funds for a pilot microlending project. The pilot project involves eighteen widows, who work as a team, both relying on and being accountable to one another for the success of the businesses and for the repayment of their microloans. The occupations that OA widows have chosen are varied, depending upon the widow’s skills and the needs of the community. Besides mat-weaving, piggeries, and pharmacies, some widows sell charcoal or deliver water; others have purchased chickens and sell the eggs and poultry at the market.
