Aminata Faye, a woman in her fifties, has taken on multiple roles in her life, defying conventional expectations. She is an educator, a politician, and an entrepreneur, all at once. In her hometown of Ndorong Lôg, in the Mbam commune, Faye has managed to combine her various passions into one life. As the first deputy mayor of the commune, she is also involved in animal husbandry and agriculture, and is committed to women's development.

Faye's day is filled with various activities, from taking care of her animals to tending to her farm. Her home, which serves as a farm and a small animal enclosure, is a testament to her hard work and dedication. With a variety of animals, including chickens, pigeons, goats, and sheep, Faye's farm is a thriving enterprise. Her love for the land and animals was instilled in her by her father, a police officer who encouraged his children to appreciate the value of farming.

Faye's family has a long history of farming, with her father leaving behind over 30 hectares of land. For Faye, this land is not just a family legacy but also a promise of continuity. She believes in organic farming, convinced that excessive use of fertilizers can harm the land, animals, and consumers. Her approach to farming is holistic, focusing on sustainability and preserving the land for future generations.

As an entrepreneur, Faye has built a successful business in animal husbandry. She started small, with a few animals for family consumption, but expanded her operations in 2020 with a facility for 600 chickens. She has since shifted her focus to local breeds, which provide multiple products, including meat, eggs, and chicks. Her goal is not just profit but also self-sufficiency and security for her family.

Faye's approach to entrepreneurship is rooted in her passion for her work. She believes that when one enjoys their work, time seems to fly by. Her organizational skills also play a crucial role in her success, allowing her to balance her various responsibilities as a teacher, politician, and entrepreneur. Faye is aware of the risks involved in entrepreneurship, particularly in organic farming, but is willing to take calculated risks and learn from her mistakes.

For Faye, entrepreneurship is not just about making money but also about empowering others, particularly women. She is committed to helping women become autonomous and confident, not just financially but also emotionally and socially. Faye believes that women's empowerment is critical to their well-being and that of their families and communities.

Faye's vision for women's empowerment goes beyond material wealth or social status. She wants women to be able to take care of themselves and their families, to be confident in their abilities, and to stay true to their values. Her ambition is to inspire women to recognize their worth and value in society, and to contribute to the development of their communities.

Key points

  • Aminata Faye is a multifaceted individual who has successfully combined her roles as a teacher, entrepreneur, and politician.
  • She is committed to organic farming and women's empowerment, and believes in taking calculated risks and learning from her mistakes.
  • Faye's vision for women's empowerment goes beyond material wealth or social status, focusing on emotional and social autonomy.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.