Asteria Mathias: A Story of Resilience, Hope, and Empowerment Against All Odds
In a remarkable story of resilience and empowerment, a widow from rural Tanzania and her daughters have seen their lives transformed, thanks to the timely intervention of Mjane Tanzania, a local organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and families in need. The family, who had been facing serious social and economic challenges, was initially pressured by traditional views that undervalued female children, with some relatives advising the widowed father to marry another woman in a polygamous arrangement in hopes of having male heirs.
In rural Tanzania, where centuries-old traditions often dictate the roles and worth of women, Asteria Mathias, a woman in her 40s, was faced with one of the most heartbreaking challenges a mother could endure: the constant devaluation of her worth simply because she bore daughters. For years, Asteria’s life was dictated by societal expectations that demanded men inherit family property and wealth. In her community, the idea of women inheriting or even owning property was inconceivable.
Her husband, under pressure from his family, was advised to take a second wife in hopes of producing a male child who could inherit his family’s wealth and secure their legacy. In their eyes, daughters were considered “worthless”—as they would eventually marry and leave the family home, thus taking nothing with them. A daughter was seen as a temporary member of the household, while sons were revered as the future custodians of family land, wealth, and tradition.
For Asteria, the pain of being dismissed as inconsequential by the very family that should have supported her was profound. Yet, what should have broken her only strengthened her resolve. Despite the constant societal pressure and oppressive views of her husband’s family, Asteria refused to accept that her daughters were any less worthy or capable than sons.
“I knew that my daughters deserved the same chance at life that any son would have,” Asteria says, her voice filled with quiet determination. “They are not worthless. No one can tell me that a girl can’t achieve great things just because she’s a girl.”
Asteria’s struggle for her daughters’ education became a defining battle in her life. Despite facing rejection and harsh opposition from her husband, who believed that girls had no future beyond marriage, Asteria worked tirelessly to ensure that her daughters received the education they deserved. Her husband, at one point, even refused to send the girls to school, believing that it was unnecessary for them to be educated. Yet, Asteria was unwavering in her determination. She took on odd jobs, worked tirelessly at home, and found ways to support her daughters’ schooling.
“It wasn’t easy,” Asteria recalls. “There were times when I would cry in the night because I felt so alone in this fight. But I knew that if I didn’t give them this opportunity, no one else would.”
A Life-Changing Opportunity: The Mjane Tanzania Project
The turning point in Asteria’s life came when Mjane Tanzania, an organization dedicated to empowering widows and marginalized women, introduced her to a transformative agricultural project. Mjane Tanzania’s mission is to empower women to become financially independent through sustainable farming practices, and for Asteria, it was a lifeline.
When Asteria first heard about the opportunity, she was cautious but hopeful. She had already endured so much, and the idea of becoming a successful farmer seemed almost out of reach. But after receiving training in agricultural practices, including pig farming and sustainable farming techniques, Asteria’s world began to change.
“Mjane Tanzania didn’t just teach me how to farm; they taught me how to believe in myself again,” Asteria explains, her eyes brimming with gratitude. “They showed me that women can achieve the same success as men. I don’t need to depend on anyone, not even my husband’s family. I can create my own future.”
Through the training provided by Mjane Tanzania, Asteria learned how to manage her small-scale farm, which quickly became a source of income and stability for her family. The skills she gained allowed her to provide for her daughters’ education without relying on her husband or his family’s wealth. She no longer had to ask for permission or wait for others to offer help—she had the power to change her own life.
“My daughters can now go to school without fear of their education being denied,” says Asteria proudly. “They can dream of becoming doctors, teachers, or anything they want to be. They will not be limited by outdated traditions.”
Asteria’s Message: Empowering Women to Break Free
Today, Asteria is a living example of what can be achieved when women are given the opportunity and support to thrive. She has not only transformed her own life but has also become a source of inspiration for other women in her community. Asteria’s story has become a beacon of hope for many, showing that it is possible to rise above oppressive traditions and build a future based on one’s own strengths and abilities.
“I am not just a woman. I am an entrepreneur. I am a mother. I am strong,” she says with conviction. “Women should never depend on others, especially men. We should never rely on our husbands’ family wealth. We must stand on our own two feet and build our own legacies.”
Asteria is now actively involved in encouraging other women in her village to take charge of their lives and create their own success stories. “There is nothing a man can do that a woman can’t do,” she states firmly. “We need to change the mindset that women are only here to serve men or bear children. Women can and should own property, have careers, and lead their communities.”
Asteria’s Legacy: A Brighter Future for Her Daughters
For Asteria, the most fulfilling part of her journey is seeing her daughters excel in their education and envision a future that is bright and limitless. “I want them to go beyond what I’ve done, beyond what society thinks they can do,” she says. “I want them to show the world that women are just as capable as men.”
As Asteria’s farm continues to grow, so does her sense of pride and achievement. What was once a journey filled with doubt and oppression has now turned into a story of triumph and hope. Asteria’s message to other women, especially those in similar situations, is clear: “Your worth is not defined by your gender, your family’s wealth, or the traditions you’re born into. Your worth is defined by what you are capable of, and you have the power to change your life.”
About Mjane Tanzania:
Mjane Tanzania is an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering widowed and marginalized women in Tanzania. Through its comprehensive training programs, agricultural projects, and entrepreneurial support, Mjane Tanzania aims to help women achieve financial independence and break free from cycles of poverty and dependency. The organization believes that by investing in women, entire communities can be uplifted and given a brighter, more equitable future.