Overcoming disability to financial stability
For years, my condition made it difficult to provide for my family. Despite my skills in the repair of sewing machines, I lacked the financial means to establish a workshop, leaving us to struggle with daily needs. The weight of uncertainty was heavy, and I often wondered how I could secure a better future for my children.
Everything changed when a pastor from the Nazarene Church introduced me to a savings group formed after a training organized by the Anglican Church in Beni in collaboration with CMS-Africa in 2023. This pastor, a member of our group, had participated in the training and encouraged me to join. Our savings group was made up primarily of people living with disabilities, and for the first time, I felt a sense of belonging, and a supportive group.
I borrowed 100,000 Congolese Francs from the group allowing me to purchase the materials I needed to set up my workshop. Day by day, I repaired sewing machines and earned a steady income. Not only was I able to repay the loan, but I also managed to cover my children’s school fees and met my family’s daily needs without struggle.
As the first year ended, my savings and accrued interest amounted to 150,000 Congolese Francs. With this, I started a small fish-selling business for my wife at the main market in Oicha. Now, we had two sources of income, and for the first time in years, we felt financially stable.
Our lives have been transformed in ways I never thought possible. Before joining the savings group, I saw my disability as a limitation, an obstacle that kept me in poverty. But now, I stand tall, knowing that I can provide for my family. What’s even more remarkable is that my involvement in church, and support of church needs has increased.
CMS-Africa’s initiative gave us more than financial support—it gave us a future. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, and I pray that God continues to bless those who made this possible.