The loan, they told us, was made possible with the resources of the Enhancement of Living Standards in Fergana region project. We got to know that the project, financed by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme is supporting a local Nurafshon Credit Union to help low-income population living in four districts of Fergana region.

During our first visit to the credit union, we learned about the types of loans available, various requirements and special offers. We were a bit confused at first, there seemed to be so much to know. So we took our time to decide which type of loan was the best for us and how to use the resources wisely, not just to help us for today but tomorrow too. You can imagine how it was like. Everyone had their own ideas and plans and it was not so quick to agree on something.

After long discussions and a lot of questions and answers we agreed to use the money to buy cattle and sheep. Cared by us, the animals did well and reproduced. We knew we had to repay the loan and if one of us could not do it, the whole group would not get more loans in the future. It was a big responsibility.

Sometime it scared me. Sometimes I felt I was doing something important for myself and my family. It was a good feeling. It made me feel strong. In the end, we not only managed to repay the loan, but also made a profit. Some of the animals were sold. We kept others at home for milk and meat. With the profit and an additional loan, I want to open a sewing workshop for my daughter Rahimakhon She is such a clever girl. She studied sewing and is keen to put her skills to real use.

At the beginning we didn’t know whether we were doing the right thing. I had never taken a loan. It was not just the money that we got, but more importantly an answer to our questions on how to spend the money in the best way, how to invest it, make a profit, and keep the books.

Now we are convinced that the small credit programme offered by Nuravshon works and can help people in a way they can touch, feel and see. Our group has done well and can qualify for the second stage of the programme, which means a larger amount of credit. We want to thank the EU and UNDP. You have helped us to help ourselves. We will always remember you.