This is the story of Mrs. Bintu Bello, a woman whose resilience shines brightly in Ado-Ekiti’s Omisanjana Area. A widow and grandmother, she bravely took on the role of caregiver for her grandchild living with HIV. Through the vital support of the ECEWS-SPEED project, Mama Bintu’s life, and that of her family, has been wonderfully transformed. Mama Bintu’s journey to Ado-Ekiti was born of tragedy. She relocated from Kano state, returning to her hometown with Yemi after the devastating loss of both Yemi’s parents to the HIV pandemic. The move brought new challenges; providing for herself and her grandchild and meeting the household’s basic needs became a daily struggle. Accessing healthcare for Yemi’s vital drug refills and viral load collections often required escort services, highlighting the family’s vulnerability. Recognizing the urgent need to stabilize Mama Bintu’s household, her case worker crafted a comprehensive care plan. A Household Economic and Vulnerability Assessment confirmed what was evident: Mama Bintu was struggling to make ends meet. The solution began with a modest investment: just five thousand five hundred Naira (N5,500). With this small capital, Mama Bintu, a woman of incredible determination, started a daily contribution scheme, a disciplined approach to saving that was confirmed during follow-up visits to her bustling roadside stall. The ECEWS-SPEED project’s commitment to her well-being didn’t stop there. After attending invaluable financial literacy training, Mama Bintu received further empowerment. She was provided with essential supplies: half a bag of beans, 12 rubbers of baking flour, 5 liters of vegetable oil, a small basket of onions, and a small basket of fresh pepper. These weren’t just provisions; they were the building blocks of her expanded dreams. Today, Mama Bintu’s business has blossomed. Her stall once primarily focused on akara, now proudly offers an array of treats, including puff-puff and sweet potatoes. But the true measure of her success lies beyond the delicious offerings.
Mama Bintu can now proudly pay for her granddaughter Yemi’s tuition in a higher institution, a dream that once seemed impossibly distant. With a heart full of gratitude, Mama Bintu beams, “I am so thankful to CDC, ECEWS, and LIWOM for the support they gave my household. Because of them, I can sponsor my granddaughter’s education, ensure she has access to her treatment, and meet all our household needs.” Mama Bintu’s story is more than just a success; it’s an inspiration, showcasing how targeted economic empowerment, coupled with unwavering support, can transform lives, ensuring health, stability, and a brighter future for vulnerable families in Nigeria.
