Mukaaka Molly’s Story of Empowerment from Microloans to Macro Impact
At 65 years old, “Mukaaka” Molly from Nyamiyaga Village, Bubaare Town Council in Rubanda District, is a shining example of how empowerment transforms lives. As a member of the Nyamiyaga Grandmother Group, Molly cares for her four grandchildren: Ivan (15, Primary Seven), Samuel (13, Primary Six), Brason (3, not yet in school), and Babrah (7, Primary Two). Through Nyaka’s Grandmother Program, Molly has gained financial literacy, microfinance knowledge, and access to microcredit, tools that have enabled her to build a sustainable livelihood. She runs a thriving grain store specializing in sorghum at Bubaare Trading Centre. Since 2024, Molly has borrowed a total of UGX 800,000 (USD 222.2) in two microloans from the Nyamiyaga Nyaka Mukaka Group, using the funds to expand her business. By purchasing sorghum during harvest when prices are low and selling when the market supply diminishes, Molly now earns an average monthly profit of UGX 130,000 (USD 36.1). Her business capital has grown to UGX 2,300,000 (USD 639).
“This business has changed our lives,” Molly shares. “I can pay my grandchildren’s school fees, cover medical bills, reinvest in my store, and provide for my family. I feel proud and capable because of the support I received from Nyaka and its donors.”
Nyaka’s Grandmother Program Coordinator, Denesi, notes:
“Molly’s story is an exceptional story of growth and the impact of giving grandmothers access to resources.”
Through programs like these, Nyaka demonstrates that empowering women, especially grandmothers, can break cycles of poverty, strengthen families, and create lasting community impact.
