Christine
Gakii is a BIMAS customer from Mukothima, Tharaka North, Tharaka Nithi County.
Her journey with BIMAS Microfinance began in 2014, after her life had taken a
dramatic turn. Family disputes had stripped her of everything, leaving her in a
state of despair. Just when all seemed lost, a trusted friend guided her
towards BIMAS Microfinance.
Her
journey with BIMAS began with a modest loan of Ksh 30,000, which she invested
in her dream of starting a cereal farm. Through hard work and perseverance, she
repaid her loans faithfully and steadily climbed the loan tiers. Her farm
flourished, expanding across multiple plots of land. With courage, she ventured into a new
frontier: a pork butchery with a small kitchenette.
Her
determination paid off, and the business thrived. Seeing her dedication, BIMAS
went further, helping her acquire a motorbike to transport her products more
efficiently. As her pork business grew, the daily slaughtering of pigs demanded
more water. Recognizing her relentless commitment, BIMAS provided funding for a
water tank and an energy saving Jiko for her kitchenette.
Christine's
journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing many challenges, she has risen above
them all. Now, she owns a thriving pork butchery, employs many people, and has
become a successful landowner and farmer. She even owns three motorbikes.
Christine dreams of building rental houses on one of her best pieces of land,
which is close to an institute. With BIMAS ready to help, her dream is on its
way to becoming a reality.
She
proudly refers to BIMAS Microfinance as her "father and mother,"
underscoring the profound impact it has had on her life. In a heartfelt
message, she encourages those facing hardships not to turn to stress-induced
drinking, but to seek support from BIMAS. She says, "At BIMAS, help is
available for everyone."
Christine's
journey with BIMAS Microfinance exemplifies women empowerment and promotes
multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Through initial funding and continuous
support, BIMAS enabled her to break the cycle of poverty and establish a
thriving business in cereal farming and pork butchery, enhancing food security
in her community. By nurturing her entrepreneurship, BIMAS promotes gender
equality and economic empowerment. Moreover, Christine's enterprise generates
employment opportunities and sustains livelihoods. The provision of a water
tank further ensures operational efficiency and supports her overall
well-being.