Phakamani Foundation

Phakamani means "rise up" in isiZulu, and is pronounced, "pug -- ah -- ma -- nee."

Phakamani empowers poor women to succeed at micro-enterprise. Our integrated programme of micro-enterprise training, group loans, and on-going support lead to income, savings, and hope for the next generation.

Success for our clients means that they no longer fret about many things that wealthier people take for granted: a roof that does not leak, adequate food and nutrition for the family, the ability to pay for school fees and books, access to a local health clinic, etc.

It also means a greater measure of economic independence, confidence, new skills, community ties, and a greater ability to cope with small set-backs that can happen in any life.

Phakamani only works with and lends to people who are prepared to help themselves. When the loans are paid back they are re-cycled to assist other entrepreneurs. Every rand and dollar is therefore leveraged to help as many people as possible.