What factors have most helped this community to prosper? 1. Commercial cultivation of vegetables; better roads helped -- people come from city to buy in bulk and sell there. 2. Small and medium industries and factories near community (now more than 100.) "We have money in our hand." "People know how to make money." ― Focus group discussion of men, Ban-Wan-Po-Tong, Thailand What kinds of problems do people face if they want to improve their livelihoods? For instance, starting or expanding a business? “When one wants to prepare local brew for sale, you have to pay 500/= commission to the local government and this money should be paid in advance. If this fee is not paid, one is not given the permission to prepare the local brew. The problem is where to get this amount of money while you have not sold your brew.” ― Devotuna, Focus Group Discussion of Women, Mkalanga Village, Ruvuma Region, Tanzania What are the characteristics of the very richest and best off in your community? Step 10: lots of land, house, rice mill, big truck; but also "very industrious"…"does not smoke…"Family members help each other out. Wake up early, no debts, no gambling. Children go to college "to be able to choose their occupation..." Children are responsible who send money home to help family or can look out for themselves and don't burden parents. They help others in village, providing loans and jobs. ― Focus Group Discussion of Men, Ban-Wan-Po-Tong, Thailand |