Morzina’s wheat field looks promising for a bumper yield
Back in 2006, ActionAid began seven groups in seven villages of the Utholi sub-district in Chuadanga (a western district of Bangladesh) to tackle the issue of violence against women. These groups have helped dramatically reduce the incidence of violence in the community.
To help women play an active role in generating income in families, the groups set up a savings and loan scheme. Each of the 45 group members contributes 10 Taka (8p) per week to the savings fund, and loans can be taken from this capital sum. One of the group members, Morzina Khatun (33) shares her exciting experience:
I took a loan of 10,000 Taka (£82) and leased 1 bigha (1/3 acre) of land. My plan was to cultivate paddy and wheat to feed my family and sell the surplus. I did this successfully and earned more than 15,000 Taka (£123), repaid my loan and also bought a cow for fattening. What I enjoy most about my success is how I am now in control of making my own decisions. Before this, I was a mother who only did household chores. These days I am no longer scolded or beaten by my husband, and in my community I am known as a farmer and I am respected. I make decisions for my family and am treated as an equal by my husband and neighbours. My children are healthy and happy. I thank ActionAid.
To boost group funds, ActionAid contributed 20,000 Taka (£164) each to five similar community savings groups including the Rotirampur group Morzina belongs to. In total, 213 women and 193 men have taken loans totalling 305,000 Taka (£2,500), which are helping them become active and independent.
