By Betsy Ramser Jaime
Maureen Masheke lives in Lusaka, Zambia, and operates her own poultry business.
She shared, ‘I have the passion and desire to see this business grow and do more in the value addition to chickens. My business of chickens is a good business and if enough capital is in it, it can create even more jobs for other vulnerable people around my area. I can even employ more workers and also do the farming around the farm. We have a lot of customers but can’t satisfy them because I’m failing to meet the demand.’
Starting with Zidisha in May 2021, she hoped to use her profits to help her sons with their college expenses.
With her first Zidisha funded loan, she hoped to increase her capacity of chickens to help keep up with the market demand.
Shortly thereafter, in May and June, Maureen raised loans of $18, $28, $44, $68, and $105. After receiving her loans she’s been able to increase her stock of chickens, medications, vitamins, and vaccines.’
The following month, in June, Maureen raised $44, $68, and $105 and explained her new purchases for her business as she writes, ‘What I will use the funds this time is to buy equipment for my poultry business. I’m going to buy more feeders and drinkers for my chickens. Thank you so much Zidisha Lenders. You are really changing the world. Thank you for your assistance.’
Later on, in July, Maureen found herself in a good position to increase her number of chicks and even add another worker to her business.
As of August 2021, Maureen proudly has over 350+ chickens in her business as she shared, ‘I’m really looking forward to my new loan. Thank you Zidisha. I know we are on the right path together.’
Most recently, in September 2021, Maureen was able to raise $336 and said, ‘Thank you Zidisha for all the loans that you have given me. I’m raising money for my son s university and also grow my business to sustain and improve our lives. Also to grow this chicken business to higher levels.’
Would you like to make a difference in the life of an entrepreneur like Maureen? Make sure to head on over to our Browse Projects page to see what other Zidisha business owners are doing around the world.
Betsy is a Writer and Editor living in Florida with her husband. She has been writing with Zidisha for 5 years and loves sharing the inspiring stories of Zidisha entrepreneurs. You can connect with her on her personal website.
