My name is Amina Masoud, born in Mtwara town. I work at Mama Cashew as a cutting supervisor. In brief, my history is that I was born in Mtwara and raised in Tandahimba by my grandmother, who was a farmer.
Fortunately, I got married and spent seven years in marriage, but I faced health challenges. I struggled with illness and visited hospitals with no improvement until I sought treatment elsewhere. Thank God, I recovered, although my husband doubted it and even after divorcing me, he refused to share the property.
I couldn't stay there with my mother because I was used to fighting for myself, so I decided to come to my father's side where I found Mama Cashew factory. It had just opened in October, and I applied for a job. Thankfully, I was hired, and I started working.
While seeking treatment for my illness, I had a debt of six hundred thousand shillings, but through Mama Cashew, I managed to pay off that debt. My husband also said he didn't want any share of the property. Now, I'm grateful that I have acquired my own belongings.
Regarding the factory environment, we are grateful. Since its opening, the working conditions have been good, and we are making progress.
One thing about the women working at Mama Cashew is that we have unity and no discrimination. If one of us faces challenges, we support each other, and that's how we move forward."
Furthermore, I pray that God gives them patience so they can continue investing here in Mtwara.
My favourite thing about working here is when I encounter difficulties and I approach my supervisor to explain, they are always cooperative and supportive. If a solution isn't immediate, I’ll be informed promptly.
Additionally, we are delighted when the factory opens at the beginning of the season and when it closes at the end of the season, we celebrate with each other to congratulate ourselves for our hard work throughout the year. We also celebrate International Women's Day with grand festivities, including music, feasting, and even a bank that came to support us, making it a significant event for us.
Join hands with us to promote sustainable cashews across the world!