U Saw Win comes from Shin Makan village, a remote village in Magway Division, which is known as the ‘Dry Zone’. There are 8 members in his family. Though he is the head of the family, getting a regular job is not possible for U Saw Win ecause his left hand was chopped off while preparing cattle food (dry leaves and branches). “My hand was amputated from the wrist. We can’t have regular income for food. I and the children survive by the income of my wife and my married daughter,” says Saw Win.
When they get a job, they earn 800 kyats per day (approximately 80c). “My wife is getting old with poor eye sight, so she can’t go out for work all the time. Life was tough for us”.
“Then ADRA Myanmar came to the village and renovated the water pond. I was privileged to dig the pond. I was not in the position as I mentioned earlier to use a mattock or shovel. I just helped carry the mud basket with my right hand and shoulder. I got 3 rice bags (150 kgs). “Then ADRA Myanmar came to our village again. I was selected to get 5 goats from the livestock sector as a part of a evolving bank system.

“It was one of the most unforgetta- ble days in my life. Everyone in the family was happy. The joy spread very fast. Shepherding or caring for these goats is appropriate for a man like me. Now I have a job. I am taking good care of the goats. I clean the goat shed and prepare drinking water. I am now fully
employed,” exclaims Saw Win.

Livestock specialist and the team visited U Saw Win often to check on the condition of goats. 7 goat kids have been born, and two female goats are pregnant.

“I hope they deliver twins!” says U Saw Win. He has returned 4 matured goats to the VDC/ Agriculture and Livestock committee for the second beneficiary. “In no time I will own a flock of goats. Striking the earth may miss but owing a flock of goats will not be missed!”
As reported by Dr. Moe Aung (Livestock Specialist)