From Loss to Resilience: A father’s journey to rebuilding his family’s future

Mr. Owona Etoga Martin, a 38-year-old internally displaced person (IDP), is a widower who tragically lost his wife to a prolonged illness, leaving him to care for their four children while grappling with a collapsed business.

Despite these overwhelming challenges, Mr. Martin, who possesses skills in tailoring, was identified, profiled, and selected for the project’s economic empowerment initiative. To further enhance his skills, he underwent capacity-building training in financial management and digital marketing. Upon completing the training, he was provided with a starter kit, which included a sewing machine and necessary accessories, to help him relaunch his business and improve his livelihood and that of his family. Ongoing follow-up support was provided to ensure the proper use of the starter kit and to promote the sustainability of his activity.

Through his determination and resilience, Mr. Martin successfully opened a tailoring workshop with the help of the starter kit. He is now generating income not only for basic needs such as food but also to cover his children's tuition fees. As a result of his hard work and the support received, he is gradually recovering from the traumatic experience of losing his wife and is rebuilding his life and that of his family.