Newly Funded Groups

During the month of May 2012, Village HopeCore funded seven new loan groups, consisting of 83 total members. Members came from different villages around Chogoria. The seven groups are as follows: Jijenge 1, Mbogori 1, Mbogori 2, Elshadai 2, Ikaani, Majira Primary, and Makuri Primary. Out of 83 clients, 24 were male and 59 were female. The age of the average member is 43 years with the youngest member at 23 years and the oldest at 71 years.

Each member from each group was given a loan of KSH 30,000, or around US $400, to invest in an existing or new business. After a rigorous week of training, with topics covering small business and health, members created their own business plans for their enterprises. For many members, it was one of the first times they received concrete training on running a business. Many members when interviewed remarked on the importance of the business training even declaring their commitment to incorporate these aspects into their businesses.

The majority of the loan clients invested in Livestock, with 33 loan clients investing in Dairy Farming, 9 clients investing in Chicken Rearing and 7 clients investing in Pig Rearing. 13 loan clients invested in agribusiness with the majority investing in tea or coffee farming. Other businesses included food production, hairdressing, and reselling clothes or shoes. After funding, clients are hopeful of the effect the loan will have in their lives and are committed to maintaining sustainable businesses that will last for years to come.