Happiness in unity! 27th October 2023 was a very happy day for the Umoja (Unity) Women’s Group in Mayega village. The group had gained registration with Busega District Council. This entitled them to receive a third grant from Busega Scotland, and completed our contribution to their VICOBA (group bank).

The Umoja group was formed in February 2022 and consists of 32 women. The first two grants paid by Busega Scotland totalled £645 (the third was £175). By the end of August the women had themselves generated an £880 in capital, through interest on business loans taken from the VICOBA and from their general savings. The crucial impact of Busega Scotland is the ‘seed corn’ capital we are able to provide, and that is then combined with the work of the women to grow their capital.

The VICOBA money is theirs and, as usual in our groups, after paying the third instalment Busega Scotland steps back. We promote independence not dependence.

The photos show the Umoja group with our supervisor Julieth Godwin (pink dress) and project leader Gadlord Deuli joining in the celebrations. Well done, Umoja!