Chimtsuko 0211 Group

Chimtsuko 0211 Group is a collective of five women who operate diverse businesses, including a grocery shop and raising poultry. Among the members, two are married, one is a widow, and one is divorced. They have an average age of 43 and together they support and sponsor the education of 26 children in their care. They have united with the shared goal of achieving financial freedom.

For Zelya, a 48-year-old entrepreneur and mother of four, her salon is more than just a place of business, it is the foundation of her family’s future. After the loss of her husband, Zelya became the sole provider, navigating the challenges of widowhood while ensuring that her four children remained her top priority. With two of her children currently in school, the pressure to maintain a steady and growing income is a daily reality.

Zelya’s salon has always been a hub of activity in her community, known for her skill and warm hospitality. However, she reached a point where her ambition outpaced her available equipment. From her previous loan she was able to increase her daily turnover and provide better experience for her clients; she modernised her workspace and stocked up on high-quality hair products.

Zelya has requested a loan to expand her inventory (including wigs and hair care products), noting that investment is vital for stability. Other group members are also planning to order more stock.

The Microloan Foundation, Lendwithcare's local partner in Zambia employs a unique 'centre' model for lending to female entrepreneurs. A centre comprises several sub-groups which share the same name as the centre. As such, you may have seen similarly named group loans from Zambia all belonging to the same centre. In this system, each woman is individually responsible for repaying her loan, but the group offers mutual support by assuming overall responsibility together.