Teresa Gala is a 44-year-old mother. She got married at the age of 14 and had to drop out of school due to new circumstances. For more than three decades, her days were filled with housework and childcare. During the farming season, Ms. Gala adds to her daily routine by working on her family’s farm.
However, her thoughts were always focused on her own business, a job that would give her financial independence.
Ms. Gala said: “Because I have no education and no livelihood, I always have to ask for money from my husband. many times still hear ‘no’. Very humiliating”.
Three decades ago, when she got married, there was hardly any debate about child marriage in the country, but things are changing for the better. Since 2019, the Spotlight Initiative, a United Nations global initiative funded by the European Union, has supported the approval and implementation of Mozambican laws to protect women and children. girls from gender-based violence and harmful behaviors, such as child marriage.
A safe space to grow
In 2021, Ms. Gala’s life improved when she joined the Tambara Women’s Association (ASMTA) in Manica province, an organization supported by the Spotlight Initiative. These women’s associations and groups create support networks where women can learn and grow together economically, and create relationships of trust and safe spaces to address issues. issues related to gender-based violence and women’s rights. In Mozambique, over the past year, the Spotlight Initiative has supported more than 9,000 women in this way.
Through the group, Ms. Gala had access to a “business suite” that included the initial funds to set up a company selling yogurt made from Malambe (the fruit of the baobab tree) and Maheu (a corn-based drink). yeast).
In the Tambara district, where Ms. Gala lives, the temperature easily reaches over 40 degrees Celsius but by investing the first profit in the freezer, she was able to make Maheu and Malembe ice cream, the ice cream that immediately caused fever. immediately to its customers.
With more money, Ms. Gala was able to buy a mobile phone, allowing her to communicate with customers and social contacts, as well as participate in the national mobile financial system.
With the proceeds from her micro-business, she now contributes to family expenses and pays college tuition for one of her daughters studying for a medical degree.
“My business makes me feel more respected at home. Today, I’m a financially stable, frugal woman who contributes to family expenses and children’s education. the,” she said. “I no longer have to wait for my husband to meet my financial needs.”
