By: Archie Boan
The Friends of Collins (FOC) Village Savings Association has celebrated its ninth graduation with a record L$8 million share-out the largest since the program began in 2016. Sixty-three women received payouts ranging from L$97,000 to over L$200,000, marking a major boost for household income in Gbarpolu District #2.
The ceremony in Borlia drew hundreds, with former Public Works Minister Ruth Coker Collins praising the women’s resilience. “The country is difficult, but your hard work brought you here,” she said, awarding L$10,000 to the highest saver of the cycle.
FOC’s Secretary-General, Alfred P. Kailie, reported that members contributed L$500 per hand throughout the year, generating the multi-million-dollar pool through contributions, loans and interest. Impressed by his recordkeeping, Rep. Luther S. Collins pledged a new motorbike to support his work.
Collins described the initiative as “poverty reduction in action,” noting its impact on petty traders, households and small businesses. Women like Kemah Womba testified that loans from the program helped them expand into full provision shops.
As the program nears ten years, community leaders say the FOC savings model continues to stand out as one of Gbarpolu’s most reliable grassroots empowerment tools.
