Community Development for All (CODEFA)

Community Development for All (CODEFA), led by Ruth Bethuel Mleba, is a Tanzanian women-led organization dedicated to empowering women and young mothers in underserved communities through entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business development. CODEFA equips women with the skills and knowledge they need to manage their businesses, comply with tax regulations, and grow sustainable income, improving their families’ wellbeing and contributing to local economies.

With a $500 Giving Joy microgrant, CODEFA will deliver a financial literacy and taxation training program for 30 women entrepreneurs, providing practical knowledge on tax compliance, bookkeeping, savings, and responsible borrowing. This training will enable women to confidently manage their businesses, transition from informal to formal operations, and access financial services like credit and insurance. The skills gained will help them avoid common pitfalls such as penalties for non-compliance and poor record-keeping, enhancing their ability to grow their businesses, increase their income, and participate in government procurement opportunities.

The funds will strengthen these entrepreneurs by improving their record-keeping, budgeting, and understanding of tax obligations, thereby bolstering their business operations and increasing their eligibility for financial services. This initiative will not only promote the growth and stability of women-led businesses but also further CODEFA’s mission of empowering women economically and contributing to local economic development.