Henry Wellington, “the loan has helped me to grow my business and gave me the confidence to think larger."

Henry Wellington started his cement business 12 years ago, building on the experience and passion transmitted by his grand-father. He was able to finance his studies in accounting at the University of Liberia but could not satisfy the growing demand of his customers.

With a first loan of EUR 560 from AccessBank Liberia, Henry was able to pre-finance his purchases and thus, increase his sales and income. He repayed the loan on time and obtained a second loan of EUR 980, reimbursable over a longer period of time. This has enabled Henry to buy more shovels and wheelbarrows for his workforce which increased from 10 to 35 people. He has recently opened a third production point in Sinkor, Monrovia, and he is now able to purchase higher quantities of cement at lower prices. He has also started to produce blocks of different designs in order to meet the increasing competition with a wider choice of products and better quality. “AccessBank Liberia”, he says, “has helped me to grow my business and gave me the confidence to think larger.”

Addy Nyemah, “I’ve been able to raise my two children and send them to schools.”

Addy Nyemah, moved into a more profitable business thanks to a first loan of EUR 245 after having sold soft drinks for a couple of years in Ma-Juah market in Monrovia. Today, her business involves buying, cleaning and refurbishing used bed sheets prior to putting them on the market at a cheaper price than new ones.

The loan has helped Addy increase the number of items on sale and diversify her range of products notably products generating higher profit margins, such as laces and new curtains. “Thanks to ABL, I’ve been able to raise my two children and send them to schools. Customers like to see a business well furnished and now, when they come to my table, they know they will find the items they like”.

A few months ago Addy also opened a savings account. Today, she has a solid base of regular customers and a stable source of income. Besides, she plans to open a shop in Central Monrovia and travel to Guinea and Nigeria to meet her suppliers.