In Myanmar, your land is your life. More than 60% of the population rely on farming as their main source of income. This is why the loss of land is often one of the root causes of debt slavery and human trafficking.
“LCA (Circuit International’s implementing partner) supported us by lending us seed and fertilizer. Our incomes were raised and we were able to support our children to study in Lashio (largest town in Shan state). ”
In northern Myanmar we have met many people enslaved on what was their own land because of corrupt business practices and greedy moneylenders.
We are ready to change that.
In 2016 we helped one small community tract of three villages out of a difficult spot by loaning them around $7000 NZD at very low interest. This was enough to buy seeds for all the farmers. Around a year later, that community had paid us back in full plus interest. Without this loan Man Kat community would have lost all its land to moneylenders and Chinese corporates. There is also a high chance that their children would have been trafficked. This has certainly been the case for hundreds of others in nearby communities. Recently, Circuit visited a village where almost every girl over the age of 16 was gone. Many, never to be heard from again.
Last year we helped almost a thousand households with the money we lent them. This year we want to help many more.
How are we doing this? Together with our local partner in Myanmar (Love Conquers All Foundation [LCA]), we operate several seed banks. Through these banks, farmers in need can 'borrow' the seed they need to plant their land, at low interest. This interest is used by the community for development programmes.
Our vision is to transform the economy of an entire region affected by debt slavery and the terrible consequences that come from it.
We would love you to join us in realising this vision!