Afiwagan, shopkeeper in Togo

My name is Afiwagan Attiogbe, I am 36 years old, and I am a shopkeeper in Lomé. After my father died, I had to leave my family at the age of 9 to live with my sister and ease the burden on my mother. In 2014, after graduating from high school, I moved to Lomé to continue my studies, but a lack of funds forced me to look for work.

Taking the plunge despite the difficulties

At the age of 24, I found a job, but the salary was too low to cover my needs, so I had to resign. Determined to no longer depend on an employer, I started a general food store in 2016 with only 20,000 CFA francs (€30). My husband helped me set up a kiosk where I sold phone credit and money transfer services. Little by little, I expanded my business by purchasing products on credit from suppliers.

Growing my business with credit

With the support of Assilassimé Solidarité, I had access to progressive loans that allowed me to expand my business. Today, my shop offers food products, cold drinks, frozen items, and a mini-bar. My income has increased from 60,000 CFA francs (€91) to 300,000 CFA francs (€457) per month, allowing me to send my children to school, help my husband build our house, and provide for my family. Before, eating three meals a day was a challenge. Today, we choose what we want to eat.

I have high ambitions for the future.

My main challenge remains fatigue, as I work late into the night. To lighten my load, I have hired an employee. My next goal is to open a SODIGAZ bottle sales outlet to diversify my income.

Thanks to Assilassimé Solidarité, I have not only stabilized my family, but I have also helped my little brother open his own shop.