Dear Tumaini Family,
Every week, we get to witness stories that remind us why hope matters—and why empowerment changes everything. Today, we’re celebrating the incredible journey of the Upendo Women Group, a shining example of what happens when women are equipped, encouraged, and united with purpose. A fun fact, Upendo means "Agape Love, God's Love".
From Four Women to a Movement
Upendo Women Group began in 2017 with just four determined women who shared a simple but powerful vision: to stand together, support one another, and build a better future for their families.
What started as a small circle of encouragement has grown into a thriving group of 26 active members, each committed to lifting their households and their community.
Small Beginnings, Big Determination
In the early days, the group saved what they could—just Ksh. 200 per month, the US equivalent of $1.57. There merry-go-round contributions - monthly pooled savings that are given in full to a different member each cycle - were the same amount. It wasn’t much, but their consistency and discipline laid the foundation for something extraordinary.
Their dream was simple: to improve their livelihoods and give their children the gift of education and opportunity. Doesn't that sound like something we all hope for?
Tumaini’s Support Becomes a Turning Point
Through Tumaini’s socio‑economic development pillar, the women received training in:
Bookkeeping
Financial management
Farming and livestock care
Group leadership and planning
These skills became the spark that ignited their transformation.
Then, in 2021, Tumaini provided seven goats to help the group launch a sustainable income‑generating project. With the training they received, the women applied improved breeding and management practices—and the results have been remarkable.
A Story of Growth and Stewardship
Today, those seven goats have multiplied into 46 healthy goats—a testament to the group’s dedication, unity, and stewardship.
Their financial systems have strengthened as well:
Monthly savings increased from Ksh. 200 to Ksh. 2,500 per member (from about $1.50 to $19.50)
Merry‑go‑round contributions grew from Ksh. 200 to Ksh. 800 per member (from about $1.50 to $6.25)
This growth reflects not only increased income, but increased confidence, discipline, and vision.
Looking Ahead With Courage and Ambition
Upendo Women Group is now preparing to expand into the hospitality sector, investing in tents and chairs for hire at weddings, church events, and community gatherings. This new venture will create a reliable income stream and strengthen their long‑term sustainability.
A Testament to Empowerment
From humble beginnings to a thriving economic unit, Upendo Women Group shows what is possible when women are empowered with knowledge, opportunity, and community support. Their journey is a living example of Tumaini’s mission: to restore dignity, strengthen families, and build sustainable futures.
You Can Help More Women Rise
Stories like this are only possible because of generous partners like you who believe in empowerment—not just relief. When you give to Tumaini’s socio‑economic development pillar, you help women start businesses, feed their families, educate their children, and transform entire communities.
Will you help more women like the Upendo Group build a future of hope?
With gratitude,
The Tumaini Team
