The working mothers of Benin (includes instruction video: how to strap a baby on your back)

The one income family doesn’t exist in Benin. Just like their moms and their mom’s moms, Beninese women enter the work force as soon as they’re able and keep going no matter what. They’ll work through the rain, they’ll work through malaria, they’ll work while pregnant with all of their wares stacked on top of their heads and their children literally strapped to their backs.

For those of you who want to try this at home, here’s one Kiva entrepreneur teaching me the art of baby-strapping (and her amused friends in the background).

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Want to do more? Loan to one of Kiva’s entreprenuer’s in Benin. Or join the Friends of Benin lending team!

Marie Leznicki is a Kiva Fellow serving her placement with Alidé in Benin.