Empowering Communities: How Manangwonzi Is Transforming Lives Against Climate Shocks

Polite Masaka, a devoted farmer in Manangwonzi, Zambia, shares her transformative experience with the Manangwonzi Savings Group. As the group secretary, she promotes discipline while fostering a cheerful environment. Members pool savings for loans and projects, resulting in significant financial growth. Polite’s farm has diversified impressively, showcasing the power of community collaboration in addressing climate challenges and enhancing resilience.

On a bright Monday morning in Manangwonzi, Polite Masaka, an enthusiastic farmer and caring grandmother, is preparing for a meeting at the community center. As a new member of the Manangwonzi Savings Group, she has experienced remarkable changes in her life within a short span of six months. This group has become fundamental to her growth and financial stability.

As the secretary of the group, Polite embodies both cheerfulness and a strong sense of discipline. Her joyful disposition is often complemented by a strict enforcement of rules during meetings, ensuring all members remain focused. She swiftly addresses distractions by imposing a fine of Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) 2, emphasizing, “This one hour is serious business” while maintaining a warm smile.

The Manangwonzi Savings Group operates on an effective model where members pool their finances, lend out funds with interest, and reinvest profits into various projects. A share is only ZMW 20, yet the cumulative savings and interest yield substantial growth. Polite has saved ZMW 1,360 and has received ZMW 12,900, including interest, during her recent share-out.

Thanks to these funds, Polite has transformed her agricultural practice from simple crop farming to a diversified venture, now raising 25 chickens, 7 pigs, 6 guinea fowl, and 10 goats in just six months. Her dream of raising pigs has become a reality, and she expresses her joy, stating, “I always wanted to raise pigs, and now I can finally do it.”

In Monze, Zambia, these community savings groups are pivotal in combating climate shocks. They function as financial safety nets as locals unite to address unpredictable weather and economic hardships. This grassroots initiative not only fosters community spirit but also highlights the effectiveness of collective action in building resilience to climate change.

The story of Polite Masaka and the Manangwonzi Savings Group exemplifies how community-driven initiatives can empower individuals to adapt to climate challenges. By pooling resources and fostering collaboration, residents are not only improving their personal finances but also reinforcing community ties and resilience against environmental adversity. Such efforts demonstrate the potential for collective action to enhance growth and sustainability in the face of climate shocks.

Original Source: www.undp.org