Sayid Mustefa, who has only one lung, and his wife are both disabled and struggle to support their two daughters in a society that relies heavily on agriculture and manual labor. In 2019, he received an ETB4,000 ($150) loan and opened a small shop in his home. With a successful business, they have enrolled their two children in school and can now afford the school fees and required supplies. Sayid expressed, “I am happy to have received the support I needed to change my life.” Despite having only one lung, Sayid believes he and his children can breathe easier and now have bright futures.
Note: While most of Hope Arising’s beneficiaries are women, we remain focused on assisting families with children as they move toward self reliance. Sayid is a wonderful example of those most in need who can provide for themselves when given training and resources.