Eleven-year-old Uwase Belinda, a fourth-grade student, has discovered an unexpected path to financial independence and a brighter future, all thanks to a single chicken.
“This hen has given me so many eggs that I lost count!” she says with excitement.
Instead of just enjoying the eggs, Belinda saw an opportunity. She began selling them and using the money to buy the school supplies she needed.
“I sell the eggs to buy school materials, feed for my hen, and also to save money every week,” she explains.
Belinda is part of a savings group at Dufatanye Organization, where she saves 200 Rwandan francs every week. She has a bigger vision: to grow her small poultry project with the help of her grandmother.
“Together with my grandmother, I want to raise 15 chickens. They will help me save even more money, which will support my education,” she says with determination.
Through the One Chicken Per Child initiative, 200 hens and fruit trees were distributed to empower children like Belinda. This initiative directly contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 1 (No Poverty): Selling eggs provides children with an income source, reducing financial struggles.
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Eggs serve as a nutritious food source, improving dietary health.
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Sustainable food access promotes better nutrition and well-being.
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Income from eggs helps children afford school supplies, ensuring they can continue their education.
- SDG 5 (Gender Equality): The project empowers young girls like Belinda to take charge of their financial future.
- SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Early exposure to entrepreneurship helps children develop financial literacy and business skills.
- SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): The initiative supports underprivileged children, giving them tools to improve their lives.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): By reinvesting in poultry farming, children learn sustainable business practices.
- SDG 13 (Climate Action): The initiative also includes fruit tree planting, contributing to environmental conservation.
- SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Collaboration between communities, organizations, and donors makes such impactful programs possible.
With her entrepreneurial mindset and strong commitment to saving, Belinda is shaping a future where she can continue her education without financial struggles. One egg at a time, she is building a brighter tomorrow! #SDGs #EmpowerChildren