In the heart of Navosa's rugged landscapes lies the village of Wauosi, which belongs to the district of Namataku. Here, resilience isn't just a trait—it's a way of life.

The Wauosi Women's Club is rewriting the narrative of rural empowerment, turning challenges into opportunities, and inspiring an entire community through sheer determination and steadfast unity.

Led by Kelerayani Luvu, a dedicated and inspiring leader, the club comprises 39 women whose efforts reach far beyond poultry farming.

Their work has touched every corner of village life, from fostering economic opportunities to uplifting the spirits of their neighbors during moments of need.

“The group of hardworking women has turned struggles into triumphs, illuminating our community with bold vision and unwavering determination,” she smiled proudly.

Passionately explaining the club's beginnings, Kelerayani said that this is her third year into leadership. We forged on and we also remember the bold women that have passed on,” she said.

“It started from a small idea—a dream to help women stand tall despite our hardships. Poultry farming was something we could do, something that could make a difference in our lives and the village."

That dream has grown into a thriving enterprise, and the women rear chickens, selling them at $25 per bird to neighboring villages such as Nasaucoko, Wauosi, Nasivikoso, and Bukuya.

The demand for their products is high, especially during community functions and school events. The poultry sales have funded numerous projects within Wauosi, including the construction of a kitchen for the community hall.

In 2019, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, through the Poultry Extension program, provided critical support by assisting the club with 100 broiler chicks, feed, drinkers, and feeders. This assistance greatly improved their ability to manage poultry operations efficiently and further boosted their productivity.

"We wanted to show that no matter how remote or resource-constrained we are, unity and hard work can move mountains," Kelarayani shares.

"Even when challenges feel overwhelming, we have each other—and that is our strength."

The group’s vision doesn't stop with chickens. Recognizing the high transportation costs of buying bread from Keiyasi, they have set their sights on starting a bakery.

“For us, we pay $50 carrier run to Keiyasi when we want to buy bread for function, school, or home and we believe that this initiative would not only save costs but also provide fresh bread locally, creating another layer of economic empowerment for the village,” she said.

But their journey hasn’t been without its obstacles. The club has faced logistical challenges due to their remote location, making access to stores and supplies difficult.

Despite the difficulties, the women have persevered. Their spirit of giving remains strong, as demonstrated by their tradition of contributing $250 to support bereaved families and assisting with village functions. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning admiration from neighboring communities.

Kelarayani advises other women to embrace unity and remain committed to their goals.

"No matter how far apart we are or how tough things seem, faith and teamwork make all the difference. We’re stronger when we work together, and our achievements come from that bond."

The Wauosi Women’s Club stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and resilience. Their dreams and dedication have transformed not just their own lives but also the heart of their village.

In the hills of Navosa, these women are lighting the way, proving that no challenge is impossible when a community works together.

Their story is far from over. With their bakery project on the horizon and their determination as steadfast as ever, Wauosi continues to thrive—one bold step at a time.

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