Updated on 6 May 2008
As part of the programme for empowerment for the local community, Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya is continuing to provide training for capacity building to women groups in Chengoni. This is in line with the project to provide economic upliftment to residents in the rural areas.
Facts about Chengoni:
- The third village selected for the Economic Upliftment Programme
- 67 Km from Mombasa Town (situated in the interior after Samburu)
- Estimated population – about 6,000 people
- Main Occupation – animal keeping (cattle, goats) and farming
- 70% of the population below absolute poverty line (A dollar a day)
- 75% level of illiteracy
The experience of training programs held in McKinnon Road and Burani Villages showed that it would be more beneficial for participants to conduct the training in two modules.
The first module of 5 days training session was held from 7 to 11 April 2008. The themes covered in this session included group formation, savings mobilization and leadership skills. The training was conducted by experienced community trainers.
Lessons Taught:
- Self Introduction
- Expectations
- Introduction to Savings
- Saving Procedures
- Introduction to Passbook
- Introduction to Register
- Savings Demonstration
- Communication Skills
- Problem Solving
- Introduction to Leadership
- Role of Office Bearers
- Leadership Style
- How to Select a Leader
- Leadership (in group business)
- Animal behavior
- Project Identification
- Final Evaluation
This resulted in the formation of Sakina Savings Club. The level of enthusiasm among the participants was very high even though they belonged to different age groups - young and old. They were full of ideas and expressed views on how they would move on from here. The group has been registered under the Government Social Services Department.
Achievements:
- The number of members in the group has increased to 133. At time of formation in September 2006, there were 42 women members in this group.
- Savings Club has been strengthened; amount of Kshs 10 405/= has been collected in group savings.
- 80% understood all lessons, roles play and group work.
The second module for this group in Chengoni Village is expected to be held in June 2008.
Bilal Muslim Mission of Kenya would like to thank all those involved in this training program. A special thanks goes to the Federation of KSI Jamaats of Africa for sponsoring this Economic Upliftment Training Program.