At 29 years old and unmarried, Aisha Ahmednoor once struggled to imagine a future beyond daily survival in Kinna Ward. Like many young women in her community, she faced financial challenges, limited opportunities, and the responsibility of supporting her family without a clear path forward. Paying college fees and investing in her own education felt impossible, and she often wondered if her dreams could ever become reality.
Everything changed when Aisha joined Liban Group, a community savings group under the PRIME Program supported by MID-P in partnership with Mercy Corps. Determined to create opportunities for themselves, the group began saving collectively using structured savings and internal lending practices. During their meetings, each member contributed consistently while field agents guided them on tracking contributions and managing funds responsibly. That day, Aisha realized that saving, even small amounts, was possible, and doing it together gave her strength, confidence, and a shared sense of purpose.
Through the group, Aisha also received training in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and business management, equipping her with the skills to save, plan, and make informed financial decisions. By actively applying what she learned, she built discipline, confidence, and a clear sense of control over her life.
Using the group’s internal lending system, Aisha accessed a Ksh 21,000 loan, which she used to pay her college fees. This enabled her to enroll in a Certificate in Community Development at Garissa Community Concern Training Institute. For Aisha, stepping into the classroom was more than an
academic achievement—it was a concrete step toward independence, self-reliance, and a future she could shape herself. She plans to continue to a diploma and eventually secure employment to support herself and contribute meaningfully to her family and community.
In addition to financing her education, Aisha participated actively in the group’s merry-go-round initiative, where 20 members contribute Ksh 200 each weekly. Through this system, she received Ksh 6,000, which she invested in starting a small grocery business. Today, the business generates Ksh 2,000 daily, directly supporting her household and reducing financial pressure on her family. Beyond her home, the shop provides essential goods to community members, showing how disciplined savings can grow into sustainable enterprises.
Reflecting on her journey, Aisha shares:
“Thanks to Liban Group, I was able to take a loan of Ksh 21,000 to pay my college fees. The training in saving and managing money gave me confidence I never had before. When I received the merry-go-round money, I invested it in my grocery business. Now I can support my family and plan for my future.”
The Chairlady of Liban Group also spoke proudly about Aisha’s progress:
“Aisha’s success shows what women can achieve when we save together and support one another. She used every opportunity wisely, and her journey encourages other members to invest in themselves and believe that change is possible.”
From financial uncertainty to education and entrepreneurship, Aisha’s story shows that with knowledge, opportunity, and determination, it is possible to transform challenges into stepping stones and small savings into lasting empowerment. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even from modest beginnings, women can rise to build lives of independence, dignity, and impact.
