In the remote village of Indonyonado, Monduli Tanzania, women once lived in the shadows of their homes, bound by tradition and hardship. But today, their stories are not of struggle but of resilience, economic independence, and newfound dignity.
A Life of Struggle Before CORDS
Merry Meng’ori, a mother and community leader, recalls the grueling past. “We were weak, to be honest. As Maasai women, we used to ‘walk on our knees’ a saying that meant we had no voice, no work, and no power,” she explains. Life was a relentless cycle of hardship. Women walked for days just to access a milling machine, often sleeping in bushes and facing dangers like wild animals. “After giving birth, I had to trek to Monduli Juu at 4 a.m., a journey that took days just to grind maize,” Merry shares.
Children suffered too. Hunger and lack of income meant families could barely afford basics like salt or cooking oil. Education was a distant dream for many, as malnutrition and poverty kept children from thriving.
The Turning Point: CORDS’ Intervention
When CORDS entered Indonyonado, change began. The organization introduced a women run milling machine, revolutionizing daily life. No longer did women endure dangerous journeys they now had a reliable, incomegenerating asset right in their village. But CORDS didn’t stop there. They established VICOBA groups, where 30 women were given resources to provide microloans. “Now, we don’t beg for money. We borrow from our own fund, repay it, and help others,” Merry says proudly. The revolving fund has enabled women to start small businesses, buy household essentials, and even surprise their husbands with their financial contributions.
A Future of Hope
From walking on their knees to standing tall, the women of Indonyonado are a testament to what targeted community development can achieve. CORDS’ holistic approach economic, social, and educational has not just lifted households; it has transformed an entire village.
As Merry puts it: “Now, it’s all smiles here.” And those smiles tell a story of resilience, empowerment, and a brighter future.
More Than Just Economics: Education and Rights
Beyond economic empowerment, CORDS conducted trainings on HIV/AIDS awareness, female genital mutilation (FGM), land rights, and women’s rights topics once considered taboo. “We now know our rights. We understand health risks and stand against harmful traditions,” Merry affirms.
The impact is undeniable. Children are healthier and happier in school. Women walk taller, no longer confined to the shadows. Husbands, once dismissive, now value their wives’ contributions. “Our life has genuinely changed,” Merry beams. “We don’t want CORDS to leave may God keep them with us forever.”
