Odus Mutumani, a beneficiary of REPSSI Zimbabwe’s Inclusive Disability project, shares how his life has transformed through the Internal Savings and Lending (ISAL) initiative, a self-help group that empowers caregivers to save, borrow, and start small businesses.

“Before this project came to Vheneka village, life was tough, especially for those of us with physical disabilities,” Odus recalled. He explained that simply moving around to make ends meet was a daily struggle. However, everything changed when REPSSI introduced the Inclusive Communities project. The initiative not only provided essential lessons on mental health and psychosocial support but also introduced the concept of savings and loans for small businesses.

“The one thing I like about this project is that it doesn’t only target people with disabilities, but it also sensitizes the entire community,” Odus noted. In his village, discrimination against people with disabilities was rampant. He shared that some caregivers even went to the extent of tying disabled people to trees, a practice rooted in ignorance. “With what we’ve learned, we now understand that this is pure discrimination, and it may be due to the low levels of awareness about disability issues,” he said.

Odus is happy to see that REPSSI’s work is making a real difference. “I feel I made a good decision to join this program,” he reflected. The project has not only improved his mental health but also transformed his financial situation. Through regular savings and easy access to loans, Odus has been able to start a small business and now provides for both himself and his family.

Thanks to REPSSI’s Inclusive Disability project, Odus Mutumani is empowered, both mentally and financially, and is helping to create a more inclusive community for people living with disabilities.