Stories

My name is Gumbuizo Gurucuaro Fernando. I am 71 years old and a proud participant in the savings program in the community of Manga Loforte. Through this initiative, I have discovered a sense of independence that I never thought possible. It has brought a deep sense of peace into my life.

Several years ago, I faced a very difficult chapter. My wife left me after I had been unemployed for over six months. I live alone and was born with a physical disability that affects my lower limbs. Without family support, I relied solely on the kindness of neighbors and members of my church to survive. During this time, I often felt overwhelmed with sadness and hopelessness.

In 2018, everything began to change. I was introduced to Oasis Mozambique by a woman in the community a single mother who told me about the various programs they were running. The one that caught my attention the most was the savings group. She took time to learn about my life and asked about my skills. I told her that I had a background in tailoring and sewing. With that, she connected me with one of the community savings groups so I could begin to build a financial foundation.

At first, I wasn’t sure the group would accept men. But the women reassured me that Oasis promotes inclusive participation, and I was warmly welcomed.

In my first savings cycle, I was able to save 2,750 meticais. In the second cycle, I managed to save 5,000 meticais but it still wasn’t enough to buy the sewing machine I had been dreaming of. Finally, in the third cycle, I saved 6,000 meticais, plus an additional 3,000 meticais in profits I earned during the same period. With this combined amount, I was finally able to purchase my very own sewing machine a dream come true.

That moment marked a turning point in my life. With my machine, I began offering tailoring services from home. I continued participating in the savings group while now being able to provide for my basic needs through my own efforts. Today, I earn between 200 to 500 meticais per day. I no longer depend on my neighbors or the church for survival. I feel encouraged, empowered, and on the path to becoming the person I’ve always wanted to be.

I remain an active member of the savings group. Recently, I took a small loan to purchase 19 capulanas (traditional fabrics), which I now sell at my tailoring space. Clients come to me, choose their preferred fabric, and I create custom outfits based on their requests. This added service has expanded my business and helped attract more customers.

I thank God first and foremost, and then Oasis Mozambique for this life-changing initiative. This program helped me break through the barriers I once believed would define my life. Truly, savings are transforming our lives—mine included.

Thank you, Oasis Mozambique.