When the Community Youth-Led Climate Change and Livelihood Enhancement (CYCLE) Project was completed in 2024, many communities had already begun to experience real transformation but for the women of Bwacha Cooperative, the journey didn’t end there. It was only the beginning.
Empowered through financial literacy and savings group training introduced by ADRA Zambia, the women decided to sustain what they had learned by continuing their village banking savings program. What started as a small effort to save and support each other has now grown into a thriving community-led financial movement.
In 2024, the group collectively saved ZMW 184,409, with the highest individual saver walking away with ZMW 17,000. One year later, in 2025, their total savings nearly doubled reaching an impressive ZMW 344,637, with the top saver earning ZMW 32,200.
During the latest share-out held on 6th October 2025, emotions ran high as members shared heartfelt stories of how these savings have changed their lives. Many spoke about growing their small businesses, supporting their children’s education, and gaining confidence as women entrepreneurs.
“I never imagined I could handle such money or run my own business,” Catharine Habele group chairperson shared proudly. “Thanks to ADRA Zambia and the CYCLE Project, we have learned to trust ourselves and work together for a better future.”
The Bwacha Cooperative stands as a powerful reminder that true empowerment doesn’t end when a project closes it continues when communities take ownership.
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