Digital Growth: How UKIJANI Transformed Sibilina’s Green Business

1. By Deogratius Koyanga

"Before I was identified and trained in leadership, entrepreneurship, and business management by HELVETAS Tanzania, I was barely known, and my customer base was limited," recalls Sibilina Lyimo, a vibrant entrepreneur from Majengo Street in Manyoni District. Today, she is a well-recognized figure in the production and sale of ornamental flowers, fruit seedlings, and shade trees in Manyoni Town and beyond.

Her journey of transformation began when she joined training sessions under the UKIJANI Project, implemented by HELVETAS Tanzania. The knowledge she acquired significantly enhanced her communication strategies, expanded her reach, and elevated the quality and visibility of her green business.

"There’s been a remarkable change in my business. I’ve increased my production to meet growing demand. Previously, I wasn’t known in places like Bariadi or Simiyu, but now I supply fruit and shade tree seedlings to clients there. Many women now request me to train them in seedling propagation, and I’ve successfully produced and delivered seedlings to them," she says.

A key turning point for Sibilina was gaining digital literacy. The project empowered her to use social media platforms like WhatsApp to market her products and connect with customers far beyond her local area.
"Before the training, I didn’t know how to use my phone for business. Now, I upload pictures of my flowers and seedlings to WhatsApp status and groups, and that alone has expanded my clientele. I’ve also started designing promotional materials, like flyers and business cards, to strengthen my brand identity," she explains.

With support from the UKIJANI Project, she has made significant aesthetic upgrades to her business—painting flower stands, purchasing new pots, and creating a more visually appealing environment for her customers.

Her impact has extended to environmental education and community development. Together with her husband, Frank Temba, Sibilina is now training other women in tree seedling production.
"These women have come to understand the importance of environmental conservation through the UKIJANI project. Many are now focusing on fruit tree planting, which not only benefits the environment but also boosts their household incomes," she adds.

The financial stability gained from this business has been instrumental in easing the family’s economic burdens.
"Through this venture, I now contribute significantly to household expenses, including our children's school fees. Unlike my previous seasonal clothing business, this green business provides stable income throughout the year," Sibilina explains.

Frank confirms the transformation: "Since Sibilina joined the UKIJANI project, her perspective, productivity, and financial independence have grown significantly. We've seen her business capital increase, and our family has felt the positive impact. She's even been able to support her parents in the village."

Their partnership in business has flourished.  "Whenever Frank travels and sees new and beautiful flower varieties we don’t have, he sends me pictures and asks if I’d like him to buy them. He supports and believes in this venture, and that’s why my inventory keeps growing," Sibilina says with pride.

Looking ahead, she envisions further growth acquiring more seedling varieties, improving nursery infrastructure, expanding her digital marketing efforts, and continuing to empower women through online and in-person training.

However, challenges persist. The biggest hurdle she faces is access to reliable water for her nursery.
"Currently, I use a hand-dug well that’s neither sufficient nor consistent. My goal is to build a deep well to ensure water security, reduce production costs, and increase profitability," she says.

Sibilina Lyimo’s story is a compelling example of how grassroots women entrepreneurs can thrive when equipped with the right knowledge, tools, and digital access. Through the UKIJANI Project, she not only grew a business—but also cultivated a movement of women committed to greening their communities and transforming livelihoods.