New York, July 23 -- For years, Dahab Hashi Aden carried the responsibility of raising seven children alone. Living in Kunka kebele of Gode district in Ethiopia's Somali Region, Dahab was the sole provider for her family. Although she could not read or write, she always dreamed of running her own business and creating a better future for her children.

"I always wanted to become a businesswoman," she recalled.

Determined to succeed, Dahab started a small commodity shop. But without enough capital and with high transportation costs between Gode town and her village, the business struggled. She sought help from relatives, hoping to borrow money to keep her shop running, but no one was able to assist. With no other option, she turned to sel...