At just 22 years old, Mary Nkatha has transformed her life and become a source of inspiration for her community in Mumui village, Tigania West Sub-County, Meru County. A determined and self-motivated young mother, Mary first encountered CIFORD Kenya at a young mothers’ seminar focusing on child health and immunization. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her remarkable journey toward self-reliance and empowerment.

Through her group, Mumui Young Mothers Achievers, Mary was recruited into CIFORD Kenya’s training program. Over six months, she gained vital knowledge in health, nutrition, agriculture, and financial literacy. Recognizing her drive, CIFORD Kenya supported her enrollment in a Fashion and Design course at Ann Down Vocational Center, which she began on January 15, 2024, and successfully completed by May 17, 2024.
“When I enrolled at CIFORD Kenya, I had just finished my high school education but couldn’t continue due to lack of school fees,” Mary recalls. “After staying at home, I got married and became a mother in my early 20s. I felt hopeless because I had no skills to support myself. Joining CIFORD Kenya gave me the opportunity to learn and change my life for the better.”
Mary embraced the training with enthusiasm, particularly the Fashion and Design course. “My teacher taught us well, and for anyone keen in class, the lessons were life-changing,” she shares. With her newfound skills and savings, she bought a sewing machine, which became her tool for change.

Building a Future with Fabric and Thread
Before CIFORD Kenya, Mary relied entirely on her husband for basic needs, which often led to misunderstandings. Today, she runs a small tailoring business, making garments and offering repair services to her community. This enterprise not only provides her with a steady income of at least Ksh 1,000 per week but has also restored peace and joy in her family.
“I can now contribute to my family’s needs and support our household. This makes me happy and proud of the woman I have become. CIFORD Kenya has given me skills that will sustain me and my family now and in the future,” Mary says with a smile.
Mary’s reputation as a designer has grown in Mumui village. Community members seek her expertise for garments for special occasions like weddings, as well as for everyday repairs. Her dream is to establish a larger fashion and design business, serving her community on an even greater scale.
A Beacon of Hope
Mary Nkatha’s story highlights the transformative power of skills training and mentorship. From a young mother with limited prospects to a respected entrepreneur, she embodies the impact CIFORD Kenya has in empowering individuals and fostering self-reliance within communities.
With every stitch and design, Mary is not only crafting garments but also shaping a brighter future for herself, her family, and her community.