Economic Empowerment for Maasai Women
The Nasaru Organization, in partnership with Tene Wells Consulting, empowers Maasai women in the Simanjiro district to achieve economic independence. Through initiatives such as establishing a bank, micro-enterprises, and sustainable income-generating activities, the project helps women provide for their families, break free from cultural and economic hardships, and create long-term livelihoods. This initiative also promotes financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community development.
About this program
The Economic Empowerment for Maasai Women initiative, led by the Nasaru Organization in partnership with Tene Wells Consulting, is dedicated to supporting Maasai women in the Manyara Region of Tanzania who face significant cultural and economic challenges. Many of these women lack the freedom to make decisions about their lives, including choosing life partners, and are often left without means to provide for their children when widowed. This project aims to break that cycle of dependence and create sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, women are empowered to achieve financial independence and improve their families’ well-being. Key components of the project include: 1. Establishing a Bank: Providing access to financial services, savings accounts, loans, and financial literacy training to equip women with tools to manage and grow their resources. 2. Developing Micro-Enterprises: Supporting income-generating activities such as cultural beading, dairy production from cattle, and motorcycle rental services to create sustainable revenue streams. 3. E-Commerce and Market Expansion: Leveraging technology to expand the market for Maasai women’s cultural products, increasing income and visibility. 4. Capacity Building: Training women to manage businesses effectively and build skills in entrepreneurship, financial management, and operational oversight. By engaging with the Nasaru Organization, Tene Wells Consulting gains insights into the unique cultural and economic challenges faced by the community, strengthening its ability to provide tailored consulting services and create innovative, impactful solutions. This partnership also builds strong networks with local NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders, fostering collaboration and long-term support for the initiative. The project is funded through a combination of crowdfunding, individual contributions, and partnerships with foundations and Program-Related Investment (PRI) investors. Women involved in the initiative also participate in a sustainable banking model, making deposits and investing in micro-enterprises. Profits generated are used to repay loans, reinvest in businesses, and provide dividends, creating a continuous cycle of empowerment and growth. Through this comprehensive approach, the Economic Empowerment for Maasai Women initiative promotes financial literacy, entrepreneurship, economic independence, and social progress, helping women provide for their families, lift themselves out of poverty, and create a lasting impact within their communities and beyond.
Impact snapshot
1. Women Empowered: Number of Maasai women participating in the project. 2. Businesses Supported: Micro-enterprises and income-generating activities established. 3. Financial Services Access: Number of women with bank accounts, loans, or financial literacy training. 4. Income Growth: Improvement in household income and economic independence. 5. Community Reach: Expansion of the program to additional villages or communities.