| Abstract: | World Education, in a collaboration with PfP/International and with funding from US AID, has begun comprehensive program in Kenya that offers non-governmental organizations non-formal training, technical assistance in organization and business management, and financial assistance in the form of loans for revolving credit funds. The approach emphasizes Kenyans deciding for themselves about the directions projects should take. This article discusses the Tototo Home Industries' rural economic development program. After receiving a loan from Tototo, the women of Bofu village planned to stock their small village shop with matches, kerosene, soap, salt, and cooking oil. The remainder of the loan was saved to purchase future stock. For this project, bookkeeping and management skills were necessary. To meet this need, the Tototo small business advisor designed a simple cash boom system to be used by all the groups. Sessions in accounting were included in the annual training of trainers workshop. Currently, accounts advisor visit the groups monthly to provide follow-up training and assistance to ensure the women understand how to record project transactions accurately. The lesson to be drawn from these projects is simple. It is not unrealistic to set high expectations for project participants, but it is important to remain aware of the difficulty of the new concepts presented to these groups. In order for them to adequately master both concept and practice, the participants must be given sufficient time and support. In fact, consistent follow-up and close contact with the villages is the key to Tototo's success. |
