Background

My name is Fatma Hassan Kipa, and I live in Kinondoni. I was born in 1982. I was married and had two children, but I am now divorced. My main challenge is in running my business. I used to sell soup and fried snacks around Hananasifu Secondary school, but later, the headmaster of school chose me to provide lunch for the students. However, I face a significant challenge because I sell meals for 500 shillings, which doesn't cover my costs, forcing me to dip into my savings to increase my capital. When I spoke to the headmaster about this, he agreed to raise the price to 1,000 shillings. Despite this, the students are complaining, asking for meat to be included in the meal for the same 1,000 shillings, which is difficult because meat is much more expensive than beans, which they were used to buying for 500 shillings. Another challenge is that I currently cook using firewood, and the smoke not only affects the students but also makes the process more expensive in the long run. I need to switch to more environmentally friendly options like clean charcoal, modern stoves, or ideally gas stoves. However, I lack the funds to purchase a gas stove, which would significantly reduce costs when preparing food for the 400 students. Additionally, need large cooking pots to accommodate the volume of food, which would further help to reduce overall costs when using gas compared to firewood. I am asking for help because I am currently ill with CERVICAL CANCER, but I am determined to keep going. I am grateful to God for bringing me this far, even though things are tough. My mother helps me with the cooking because I am not allowed to be around fire too much. So, I am asking for financial assistance to help me build a foundation for my business. The money I earn is used to pay for my child's education, including daily transport and lunch, which costs 3,500 shillings a day. I also need money for school fees, rent, electricity, and water bills. I live with my mother and my younger siblings, and I am the sole provider for the family. My husband left me and does not help at all with school fees or transportation for the children. I am asking for financial support to help expand my business, perhaps by opening another location, as there are times when the school closes, and I am left without income. For example, the students are preparing for a two-week mid-term break, and I am worried about how I will support my children during that time. If I could get the funds to open another location, I could continue working throughout the year and plan my own days off. This is my biggest challenge, and I am asking for help to grow my business and continue providing for my family

Vision

Mwananyamala area whereis a bustling area located in Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam, known for its vibrant local culture and diverse population. The area is densely populated, with a mix of residential, commercial, and informal settlements. The people in Mwananyamala come from various economic backgrounds, contributing to a lively and active community.