DanChurchAid
Bangladesh
New technologies and new entrepreneurs
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| Zohra Begum |
A long-standing and respected member of RDRS in Koyagolahati Dangapara, Saidpur, Zohra was able to borrow 6,000 (USD 44.23) Tk three years ago to provide the working capital for her family’s innovative business idea.
It was her younger son, Sabbir Ahmed, who had seen a gap in the market for cartons and paper-bags needed by shopkeepers selling more shoes, clothes, utensils, even mobile phones. With his mother’s help, he created the Morsheda Printing and Packaging Company.
Once the business started rolling, the whole family – parents, two daughters-in-law and Zohra’s college-going daughter, Morsheda – became involved. Only the eldest son, who has a full-time job outside, does not have to help. When the order book is full, they even have to take on 4-5 workers.
According to Zohra, “The order book could be bigger, but we need a new dyeing and cutting machine for better quality finishing. It would help to cut designs on the cartons and bags, but it isn’t available here in Saidpur. We also plan to open a showroom in the local bazaar. That’ll bring even more orders. So, I will have to borrow from RDRS again. It won’t be a problem to pay back, though. Not if the business keeps expanding.”
Like many of her peers who have been assisted by RDRS for many years, it is clear she has the entrepreneurial bug, recognised by RDRS. “A development urge has been created in them and we will continue to support them in their escape from poverty into advancement,” said Zohra’s branch manager. It is just as well that RDRS has created a class of loans for people just like her, with a good track record, commitment and enthusiasm and a commercial viable plan.
By RDRS , DanChurchAid partner in Bangladesh
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