This September marks an incredible milestone for VICOBA TAPO WOMEN, a women’s empowerment group that has transformed the lives of its members through Village Community Banking (VICOBA). Established in 2018 with the support of NGOs, government agencies, and development partners, the group was founded with a clear vision: to empower women by fostering a culture of saving, investment, and providing access to affordable loans.
Over the past six years, VICOBA TAPO WOMEN has become a hub for financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. In addition to saving and borrowing, members engage in training sessions on entrepreneurship, financial management, and other essential life skills, helping them become more self-aware and financially independent.
The group’s leadership consists of a chairperson, secretary, and treasurer, with members meeting weekly or monthly to pool savings and make decisions on loan disbursement. Each woman has the opportunity to borrow from the group based on her savings, creating a fair and empowering system that supports individual growth.
Key Benefits of VICOBA TAPO WOMEN:
- Access to Capital: Women can secure funds to start or expand their own businesses.
- Cultivating Savings and Investment Habits: The group promotes financial discipline, encouraging long-term savings and smart investments.
- Leadership Development: Women gain valuable leadership experience by managing group activities and making key decisions.
- Social and Emotional Support: The group fosters a sense of community, providing a support system for women facing life’s challenges.
Today, VICOBA TAPO WOMEN has expanded to include 18 groups with over 450 women. Members are not only saving but also accessing loans to invest in their own businesses, while collectively owning group projects that generate additional income.
As VICOBA TAPO WOMEN celebrates its sixth anniversary, the group continues to inspire women to achieve financial independence, self-reliance, and a brighter future. Here’s to many more years of success!