From Soap to Self-Reliance: Safi’s Journey of Hope

Safi, a mother of seven and leader of the Susuruka Cooperative in Musenyi refugee site, arrived from the Democratic Republic of Congo two years ago.

Determined not to remain idle, she and a few refugees began learning Kirundi and English. With support from World Vision Burundi, the group received soap and palm kernel oil resources that became their first capital for soap making.

“Our goal was to be self-reliant,” Safi says. “We wanted to find ways to supplement the limited humanitarian aid.”

Today, Susuruka has grown into a thriving cooperative with its own workshop, a store, and two shops selling soap and bread. Profits have helped members launch side businesses, save money, and improve their homes. 

Esther, one of the members, says, “Small loans from the group helped me start selling sugar and buy household essentials.”

Through determination and teamwork, Safi and the women of Susuruka have turned hardship into opportunity building dignity and hope.