Bolivia
In a population of over 11 million, over 38% live below the national poverty line (World Bank). The percentage is higher in rural areas, where over 57% of rural households live below the poverty line. In indigenous communities, women and young people are particularly vulnerable to poverty and food insecurity.
Bolivia has significant income inequality between different population groups and geographic areas. The country ranks 114th out of 187 countries on the United Nations Development Programme's Human Development Index.
The Programme
Bolivia’s Training Coordinator, Eva (left), speaks to a member about her business.
Five Talents has worked with Seeds of Blessing in Bolivia since 2009. Seeds of Blessing supports communities as they restore relationships, build their skills and develop businesses which transform their families. The programme facilitates small business development through community financial services and business skills training in Tarija and its surrounding communities.
Participants join small Savings Groups and receive training in budgeting, saving, cost of credit, business planning and nutrition. Members learn together on how to invest and grow their businesses. With their savings and loans, members are able to improve their businesses and cover their basic food, health, education, housing, and business needs. Currently, over 230 families are members and 75% describe the biggest changes in their lives are a result of their savings.
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