You have to go to the heart of Mubira Hill , in the municipality of Butezi (Ruyigi province, Burundi) to see first-hand how the Si può fare! project is changing the lives and habits of individuals and is revolutionizing the socio-economic reality of the communities involved. AMU and its local partner CASOBU support the development of the local population by accompanying the project’s protagonists in the management of small businesses from which to earn an income; businesses that are started through community microcredit: individuals form groups that – after having self-financed by creating a common fund – grant small credits to the same members who want to engage in self-employment. Is it an effective path? The stories that reach us from Burundi testify to an improvement in living conditions and future prospects that is gradually taking hold, especially among women.
A pinch of salt for Stéphanie
Stéphanie now owns a small shop on Mubira Hill. It wasn’t easy for her to take a step forward and move away
from farming. She perceived it as the only thing she was capable of doing. Evidently, this wasn’t the case: but the support, guidance and training of the Si può fare! project were decisive in making her aware of her abilities. When Stéphanie, who had already been a member of one of the community microcredit groups here in Burundi for some time, felt ready, she overcame her uncertainties and opened her own small shop where she sells basic necessities such as salt, palm oil and soap. With what she earns, she manages to repay the loan received from the group, invest in agriculture and pay taxes.
Vestine, six children and a refreshing drink
Vestine has been an active member of a savings group for four years. 
A mother of six, she sells a corn-based drink that is very popular in Burundi. This is another small business that the woman managed to start with the support of Si può fare!. What seems like a small step is actually a big change; Vestine is thus ensuring that her children attend school and provide for their needs. But her goals go further: she is building a small shop to expand her business.
Two is better: Evelyne and Gloriose together to sell more
Evelyne and Gloriose, on the other hand, have chosen to start an income-generating business together.
These two women joined forces to sell vegetables, setting up an efficient organization. Gloriose, who is very sociable, takes care of marketing, while Evelyne takes care of financial management. As a team, they achieve great success.
