Muhammed Ahmedai Abdallah - El Fasher Blacksmiths Society
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Authors
Elizabeth Dunn
Issue Date
2015-05
Type
Language
en
Keywords
Education
Alternative Title
Abstract
The Blacksmiths Society in El Fasher was formed in 1989. They were seen as the lowest class in society and had very little respect. When Practical Action first began working with them in Darfur, they were fragmented and working separately, but Practical Action knew that they could help them by bringing the different groups together. When the co-operative was formed they receive vital training in book keeping, meeting management, accountancy and they are more organised to respond to demand. They also received training in how to make better tools and different tools for use in farming. This has meant that they are able to offer a bigger variety of products and ultimately earn more money from a bigger market. Since the forming of the group, they have been able to understand how important it is to work together, rather than as competitors and have been able to dramatically increase their income and are now regarded highly by the community and receive respect for their profession. Muhammed is 45 years old and is married with children. He has been part of the group since 1993. He lives in the refugee camp on the outskirts of El Fasher with his family. He has always worked as a blacksmith and he told me that “I enjoy being a blacksmith, I never wanted to be anything else.” Before joining the group he had to work other jobs, such as selling sugar and other produce just to be able to earn enough income to support his family. This was a hard time, with no dependable income. He worked many hours and often missed time with his family. Now he doesn’t have to worry about his income. He knows that he will always have enough money because he will always have work and good access to market. He told me “I can now send my children to school, my eldest is also about to start university!” Thanks to the training given by Practical Action all of those years ago, blacksmiths from all parts of the community have been able to come together and work towards one goal. Muhammed still faces challenges in his life but the co-operative means that they are in solidarity. “Thanks very much to all my brothers and sisters at Practical Action and all the angels coming on behalf of them. If I can open my heart to show you what is inside then I would do as there is too much to show... We have been able to improve the quality of our goods and manage the business. Our wives got training too.” (They got training in pottery making, specifically zeer pots) “We got training in first aid. Practical Action distributed goats and donkeys to the blacksmiths.”
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