Tanzania: Program helps grow economic stability for families

For Rajabu, finding employment has been challenging.

Born and raised in Morogoro, Tanzania, Rajabu moved to Dar es Salaam, but he found he couldn’t earn a living there. With his wife and two boys staying behind, Rajabu moved back to Morogoro.

When a close friend told Rajabu about Cuso International local partner the Sokoine University Graduate Entrepreneurs Cooperative (SUGECO) and the trainings they offer, he decided to join.

SUGECO provided Rajabu with a space, allowing him to start a fruit trees nursery. Participating in different trainings, Rajabu acquired the technical and soft skills to manage his fruit tree nursery business.

“The most important thing I’ve learned is how to run a business,” he said.

Rajabu’s life has improved since joining SUGECO. His average income has increased from 1,000 to 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings per day. This income has helped him support his family, pay house rent, send his children to school, and cover other living costs. He’s also been able to share the skills he’s learned with other youth who are working in this business.

SUGECO is a Morogoro-based organization that supports agribusiness development, job creation, community development, and economic prosperity.

Before going to SUGECO, Esther worked in the tobacco processing industry, but when the factory closed, she lost her job. She had to look for another source of income.

“Before SUGECO, there was a time where I could sleep without eating. After I joined SUGECO, I started getting income and I am able to eat and meet other basic needs,” she said.

Esther had the opportunity to participate in the harvest of Habanero chili, making an average income of 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings per day.

Esther’s husband is also harvesting with SUGECO, which means that the couple’s employment is seasonal. In the off-season Esther develops her craftwork, making jewelry and baskets, and appreciates what capital she can earn from this other initiative. Right now, she is selling her products on the street, but hopes to gain access to a permanent market stall in the near future.