Empowering women: Mary Anthony's journey with the Wano Women VSLA Group

Mary Anthony stands as a beacon of empowerment within the Wano Women Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) Group in Western Bhar El Ghazal State, Wau. Her journey from started in 2021 alongside thirty determined women led by Lidia ReKardo, is a testament to resilience, unity, and the pursuit of financial independence. 

Their mission was clear, to confront the challenges plaguing their live s and families head-on, to forge a path of empowerment through collective action. With unwavering determination, they established a committee of four women, dedicated to addressing issues both within the group and at the family level. 

Starting with modest contributions of 300 SSP, their numbers and ambitions grew over time. Today, they contribute 500 SSP biweekly, successfully raising 2,160,000 SSP in just one year—laying the groundwork for transformative change. These funds have become vital lifelines, providing access to loans with a 10 percent interest rate and, helping members achieve financial stability. 

In May 2024, Mary’s MSE group received a 3,500,000 SSP interest-free loan from UN Women to expand their business. Despite facing market inflation, they were able to save 2,000,000 SSP, demonstrating resilience and determination in their journey toward growth.  

The impact of their VSLA reverberates through every aspect of their lives. From ensuring their children's education to covering medical expenses and putting food on the table, these women stand as pillars of resilience and strength. Their solidarity extends even further, with a dedicated social fund offering support during moments of both joy and sorrow. 

Mary Anthony shares, "Being part of this group has transformed my life. The financial support and training we receive have given me the confidence to run my business and support my family. I can now afford my children's school fees and medical bills, something I struggled with before."

Lidia ReKardo, the group's leader, says, "Our journey has not been easy, but our determination has seen us through. The solidarity and support we provide each other have been our strength. We are grateful to UN Women for helping us realize our potential and achieve our dreams." 

Guided by the wisdom and support of UN Women and ASIMO, Mary and her fellow members have sharpened their skills through business management and financial literacy training. Armed with knowledge and determination, they navigate the challenges of their shopkeeping endeavors amidst market turbulence, undeterred in their pursuit of success. 

Their gratitude to UN Women is immeasurable, as the VSLA project has opened doors to new opportunities for them. Mary and her group plan to reinvest the loan they received from Stanbic Bank through UN Women, made possible by the generous support of the African Development Bank. Their goal is not only to repay the loan but also to sustain their VSLA activities. Through their collective efforts, they are determined to carve out a path to prosperity, paving the way for future generations.