World Renew works alongside communities to build the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to overcome poverty—not just for today, but for generations to come. In Sierra Leone, with the support of World Renew’s local partner, Christian Extension Services (CES), community members in Konkoya are putting this vision into action through a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA).
In rural communities like Konkoya, where access to formal banking is limited or non-existent, VSLAs offer a practical and trusted way for families to save money and access small loans. Members contribute regularly to a shared savings pool, and as the fund grows, individuals can borrow at low interest to meet their needs. At the end of the cycle, members normally receive their savings back with interest in an annual “share-out.”
A few years ago, however, the Konkoya VSLA chose a different path.
Rather than distributing their savings at the end of the year, the 30-member group divided into five smaller groups. Each group used their pooled savings to purchase a cow, entrusting one member with its care on behalf of the group. In a community where farming has long been the primary livelihood, this shift introduced a new and sustainable way to generate income.
This creative decision is already bearing fruit. By raising livestock, families now have an additional resource they can rely on in times of need—whether to pay school fees, invest in their homes, or cover unexpected expenses.
Umu Kamara, chairperson of the VSLA, reflects on the change: “Before this time, we were unable to send our children to school or do major home repairs because of lack of funds, but now we have expanded the CES VSLA idea, which has enabled us to own cattle and raise them to sell and pay for our expenses. All this is due to the CES intervention in Konkoya community. May God continue to expand the program!”
The story of Konkoya is a powerful example of the resourcefulness that can emerge when communities are equipped with the right tools and support. What began as a simple savings group has grown into a shared investment that strengthens livelihoods and builds resilience for the future.
As communities like Konkoya continue to adapt and innovate, we give thanks for the dedication of local partners who walk alongside them. We also hold in prayer the broader needs across West Africa—that communities would have the resources they need to endure challenging seasons, that farmers would see their efforts flourish, and that those serving on the front lines would be strengthened as they continue to share hope and opportunity.
