Women's Co-ops

The women of the Kilgoris region are responsible for almost everything in the home—cooking, cleaning, caring for children and other family members, walking miles to fetch water, and tending the garden and animals. The days are long and filled with hard work. But in Kilgoris, there is a small and growing group of women who find time for community, business education, and access to partnerships that are allowing them to flourish and contribute financially to their families.

The Kilgoris Project developed Women’s Co-ops in late 2009 to give an economic boost to area families. Approximately 60 women from Oloturot, Upendo, and Oltikampu meet monthly to discuss business ideas and create friendship and support networks.  While community is one of the largest benefits, financial training and group loan programs also help these women gain economic independence and support their families. 

Spotlight: A Sustainable Business

Mama Catherine, a leader in the Upendo Women's Co-op, is operating a sustainable, profitable business that enables her to purchase more than enough food for her entire family and contribute financially to her grandchildren’s education. Read her story here.