My name is Latifa Jamal, and I come from Mtwara town. I've been working at the Mama Cashew factory for three years now, specifically in the grading department, where I grade clean white cashew nuts. Before joining Mama Cashew, I worked at another factory for 12 years doing the same grading job. After that factory closed down, I moved to another one where I worked for 8 years before finally joining Mama Cashew. I am experienced in grading cashew nuts.

The difference between working at Mama Cashew and the previous factories is that Mama Cashew pays me well compared to the others. Since I started working here, I've been able to achieve several things, including educating my children. One has completed Form Four, and the other is currently in Form One. Mama Cashew supports me in providing education and other developmental activities. I am the firstborn in my family, and both my parents passed away when I was young. I was raised by my grandmother until she also passed away.

I am grateful to work at Mama Cashew, and I hope the factory continues for a long time so that I can acquire land to build my own house. I am satisfied with the income I earn here because I receive timely payments and can support my family. Mama Cashew has good relations with us; she loves her employees, always brings joy and smiles, and never gets angry. She understands our challenges and ensures a clean working environment from where we prepare the cashew nuts to the factory toilets. We appreciate Mama Cashew for caring for us in this way.

In the coming years, I foresee significant changes in my life. My wish is to remain healthy to continue working here for a long time, and I have no desire to leave. When we receive a load of peeled cashew nuts, those of us in the grading department have a lot of work. I can grade up to 250 kilograms in a day, and I aspire to increase this amount to earn a better salary. During my free time, I engage in entrepreneurial activities such as making liquid soap, stain remover and shampoo, which help me supplement my income. Mama Cashew even buys stain remover from me for her home, and I appreciate the support.

I enjoy listening to hip-hop music, and during factory celebrations, which foster teamwork between management and employees, I always have a great time. These celebrations are not only for the workers but for everyone involved in the factory's operations. Mama Cashew values interacting with her employees and understands the daily struggles we face. She treats us equally and with respect.

Finally, I would like to request the government to consider reducing taxes, as it would greatly benefit us in Mtwara. We heavily rely on cashew nut factories for employment, and Mama Cashew's presence has positively impacted our lives. We hope the government supports her to expand her operations, as it would create more job opportunities for us and other residents in the area.