Keeping children within loving and supportive families is essential for their growth, development, and well-being. Family separation often arises from economic hardship, unemployment, or other challenges that make it difficult for parents to provide for their children. Recognizing this, Access to Health Zambia, through its Kusamala Project, initiated community savings groups in Kanyama, Chawama, Misisi communities in Lusaka, and Makululu in Kabwe District. These groups aim to empower women financially, enabling them to support their families and prevent children from being separated due to poverty.

One such success story is that of Helen Phiri, the treasurer of the Chiyambi Savings Group in Chawama community, a community-led initiative of 30 women established under the Kusamala Project. Helen joined the group in 2023 during one of the most challenging periods of her life. Her husband had been unemployed for nearly eight years, and meeting basic family needs was a daily struggle.

“There were days I did not know how we would manage; life was really hard, and I struggled to provide for my children,” Helen recalls.

Through the savings group, Helen accessed financial support and started a rice-selling business. The profits from her business have helped cover household expenses and ensure that her children receive education, proper nutrition, and a stable home environment.

“Through the savings group, I was able to start a rice business, which continues to provide a reliable income for my family. This has enabled me to raise all my children under one roof and support their needs every day,” she shares.

Helen also benefited from the Kusamala Project’s financial literacy training, which transformed her approach to money management. She learned budgeting, saving, and long-term planning skills that have allowed her to take control of her finances and make confident decisions for her family’s future.

“The financial literacy training changed my life. I learned how to manage money wisely, plan for my family, and invest in opportunities that can improve our lives,” Helen explains.

Beyond immediate financial relief, Helen has used her savings to purchase building materials for a plot of land she and her husband had long owned but could not develop due to lack of funds. She looks forward to the upcoming savings group share-out, which will allow her to complete the project and further improve her household’s living conditions.

“I am very grateful to GHR Foundation and Access to Health Zambia through the Kusamala Project for this initiative. It has not only helped me financially but also strengthened my family. My prayer is that they continue empowering women in other communities, especially those who are struggling as I once was, so they too can build better lives for their children,” she adds.