THRIVE recently held an annual celebration to bring together over 300 women who participate in our women’s groups. The women shared their joys of being women, and celebrated the one full year of saving money together. The event provided an opportunity for the different groups to meet each other and bond through dance and laughter. The local government leaders and key partners attended to show their support of THRIVE and the women’s success over the last year.
The leaders of each of the Women’s groups were given the opportunity to speak during the event. Many spoke of the various benefits of being part of the group, such as the support and drive to improve themselves. Uplift Women’s Group shared their appreciation of THRIVEGulu bringing them together. “Our focus has changed with all the good programs THRIVE has brought to us. We like the counseling, it’s true that we still have trauma. Counselors, thank you very much.”
The guest speaker for the event was the Deputy Mayor of Gulu, Mrs. Pauline Lukwayi. Similar to our woman, she started in poverty. She is a mother, a leader and she used to sell in the local market just like many of our women do today. She is married and has seen cruelty of domestic violence. Mrs. Lukwayi is no exception to rule of the patriarchal culture of Uganda, but with perseverance she has found success. In her message, she encouraged the women to work hard and save for the future of their children. She also encouraged the women to be good examples in whatever they do.
Mrs. Santa Oketta, a local Council women and Advisor for the President of Uganda, also shared her story. She is a widow who brought up her five children by baking samosas and selling them to the staff at the Bank of Uganda. She was rejected by her in-laws and came back to live with her own parents since she had to fend for her children. Mrs. Oketta encouraged the women, especially the widows, to work hard and concentrate on their businesses.
The event was marked with awards and prizes for the best performing groups in savings and household hygiene.The women’s groups sang songs and recited poems about the joy of being in the groups and the many things they have learned being part of the groups. They praised THRIVEGulu leadership and management for helping them make their dreams come true.
By Dora Alal Single
