From worry to independence

Belinda Kasudi lives with her husband, David, and their five children in a one-room rented home in Dagoretti, Nairobi. Space is tight and income is uncertain.

Work in the settlement is unreliable. When there is no work, there is no money. And when there is no money, there is no food. Saving for emergencies once felt impossible.

‘Everything here has to be paid for. We even buy water… Providing enough food for the children is very difficult.’ – Belinda

Belinda was already part of a women’s savings group when she heard about Imarisha Kilimo, a project supporting women to grow nutritious food in the city.

She welcomed the chance to learn new skills: ‘I was very happy because there were so many lessons. I felt at home.’

Through the project, Belinda received tools, seeds and a cone garden. This space-efficient design allows many plants to grow in a very small area.

'That’s a blessing because it’s very difficult to find a place to grow food here in Nairobi.'

Belinda’s urban farm now produces spinach, beetroot, maize and local vegetables. When she sells what she does not need, she earns money for school costs and household essentials.
'When I sell vegetables, I earn a few coins, she shared. 'I can pay school costs. I don’t have to beg for money.'

Her independence has changed how she sees herself. She said, ‘As a woman, you don’t have to be dependent on the man for everything.’
 

Belinda now grows organic produce and knows exactly what she is feeding her family. Her children help on the plot and learn alongside her.

'I am a woman who is happy, because I know my family eats the food that I love to grow.'

Belinda now supports other urban farmers and hopes to become a leader in her community.

Belinda and David are determined that their children will not face the same worries about food. With income from her urban farm and new budgeting skills, Belinda is saving for their education.

'Knowing that I can grow savings and use them for needs that come up has really helped me.'
 

Her story shows what can happen when women are trusted with the tools and training to lead change themselves.