Archive for category: Women’s Empowerment

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Radio Begum: A Lifeline for Afghan girls 

Radio BegumSilence is the most powerful instrument of oppression. After regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have silenced Afghan women and girls in almost every aspect of life: enforcing a systematic attack on women’s rights. This has made Afghanistan virtually unlivable for women and girls, with the situation representing the world’s most severe women’s rights crisis. Within this critical context, Afghan journalist Hamida Aman founded Radio Begum, which provides a lifeline of hope for Afghan women and girls.

The “Gender Apartheid” in Afghanistan

The Taliban are “methodically and intentionally‘” enforcing a system of gender-based segregation – which Afghan activists, like Dr Sima Samar, describe as a “gender apartheid.”

Dr Samar, who witnessed the collapse of the Taliban’s previous regime in 2001, never imagined seeing such extreme violations of women’s rights reoccur just two decades later. Yet, over the last three years, the Taliban have enacted numerous laws banning girls from going to secondary school, accessing employment, the justice system and even public spaces. Most recently, the oppression of women has reached a new extreme, with a ban prohibiting “women’s voices from being heard in public.”

A female teacher in Afghanistan said:  “In my province, we had girls that could be singers, professors, athletes and politicians. Now we have nothing left. All of those talents are in jail, left the country or now live in hiding. Families rush to marry their daughters because they are afraid the Taliban may take them for marriage. Most girls are forced to marry. This is a nightmare I never imagined to happen.”

The Power of Radio to Educate

Radio is a powerful tool in resisting the Taliban’s oppression of women and girls. It provides one of the main sources of information for Afghans, with 72% of the population having access to a radio, as of 2015. This widespread accessibility allows the radio to serve as an important educational platform for Afghan girls.

Recognizing this, Radio Begum emerged in 2021 to support, empower and educate Afghan women and girls. Its daily radio broadcasts currently provide remote schooling and educational support to 5.9 million Afghan girls.

However, Radio Begum is just one part of the wider mission led by its founder, Hamida Aman. Her NGO, The Begum Organization for Women (BOW), brings together a network of social activists, health professionals and journalists who produce broadcasts from Paris to more than 19 provinces in Afghanistan. With support from UNESCO, BOW even extends its support beyond education, producing content dedicated to women’s mental health, gender-specific healthcare and domestic violence, according to UNESCO.

Additionally, with funding from the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC),  BOW has further expanded its reach by integrating radio, satellite TV and internet broadcasting to ensure more girls across Afghanistan can access education for free. Whilst Radio Begum cannot put a stop to the oppression of women and girls, Hamida Aman emphasizes that “by keeping our radio on, by keeping our voices loud, we are resisting,” UNESCO reports.

The Need for International Support

Radio Begum offers a critical lifeline for Afghan women and girls. Despite significant obstacles, BOW’s work exemplifies Afghan women’s resilience and resistance to the Taliban, as they continue to develop innovative ways to support and empower Afghan girls. However, BOW must secure further international funding to ensure Radio Begum continues to provide Afghan women and girls with access to education, employment and leadership opportunities.

Yet, despite the severity of the situation, the international community has failed to take sufficient action. Indeed, Amnesty International and activists, like Sima Samar, continue to call for the establishment of an independent international accountability mechanism to hold the Taliban accountable for their crimes under international law.

– Georgia Wells

Georgia is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Impact of the Girls’ Education Challenge in Ghana

Girls’ Education Challenge in GhanaIn Ghana, digital literacy has become essential for students aiming to thrive in the modern workforce. However, girls in rural areas face particular challenges in accessing digital tools, often due to economic barriers and traditional gender roles. Recognizing this gap, the U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), through the Girls’ Education Challenge (GEC), has partnered with local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to empower girls in rural Ghana. Programs like the Discovery Project, implemented by Impact(Ed) International, alongside Worldreader, equip young girls with digital literacy skills to help them succeed in school and beyond.​

The Digital Divide in Rural Ghana

In rural Ghana, the digital divide poses a significant barrier to girls’ education, limiting their future career opportunities. Girls often have less access to technology than boys due to household responsibilities and cultural expectations. This gap restricts their learning opportunities and potential to gain the digital skills essential for today’s job market. Targeted interventions focused on girls’ digital literacy are crucial to breaking this cycle and empowering girls to overcome these barriers.

How GEC Is Bridging the Gap

The GEC, managed by FCDO, supports education initiatives specifically designed to improve access and outcomes for girls in rural areas. The GEC provides digital resources such as tablets, e-books and online learning platforms through projects like the Discovery Project. By focusing on girls’ education, the project seeks to close the digital divide, equipping young girls with the tools and confidence to participate fully in a technology-driven economy.

Partnerships With Local and International NGOs

U.K. Aid collaborates with organizations like Impact(Ed) International and Worldreader to bring digital literacy tools to rural Ghanaian schools. Impact(Ed) International, formerly Discovery Learning Alliance, provides digital educational content and teacher training to improve digital literacy in rural Ghana. Through the Discovery Project, supported by U.K. Aid, the nonprofit empowers girls with literacy, numeracy and life skills while providing access to digital learning resources. It focuses on gender-inclusive education, reaching thousands of girls across rural Ghana​.

Similarly, Worldreader’s partnership with FCDO has expanded access to reading materials for girls through e-readers loaded with educational content in local languages. These digital libraries are especially impactful in rural regions with limited access to books​.

Transforming Lives Through Digital Literacy

The Discovery Project in northern Ghana has successfully empowered girls with digital literacy skills. Since its inception, the project has reached more than 104,000 girls and established 448 Girls’ Clubs across 800 schools in 11 districts. These Girls’ Clubs provide a safe environment for girls to develop literacy, numeracy and life skills while building their confidence and ambition. Through engaging content like the “My Better World” video series, which features relatable role models, the project encourages girls to envision a future beyond traditional roles.

Evaluations of the program revealed a 3.7-point increase in self-efficacy among participating girls, who reported greater confidence, better classroom participation and stronger peer relationships. Digital literacy is more than just an educational tool—it’s a pathway out of poverty. By equipping young girls in rural Ghana with digital skills, U.K. Aid programs prepare a generation for modern careers. This empowerment not only benefits individual girls but also strengthens their communities. Girls who achieve digital literacy are more likely to secure higher-paying jobs, contribute to household income and drive local economic growth.

Conclusion

U.K. Aid is closing the digital literacy gap for girls in rural Ghana through the Girls’ Education Challenge and partnerships with Impact(Ed) International and Worldreader. These initiatives improve educational outcomes and equip girls with the skills needed to participate fully in the digital economy, contributing to long-term poverty reduction and gender equality. By providing digital resources and fostering girls’ empowerment, U.K. Aid is helping to shape a brighter future for Ghana’s next generation of women leaders.

– Safa Musa

Safa is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UNDP Support Women in Afghanistan Working in Small Businesses 

Women in AfghanistanThe United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supports international development sustainably and structurally, aiming to eradicate poverty and provide countries with knowledge and resources to foster development. The UNDP has focused its efforts on supporting women in Afghanistan through the current economic climate. The organization is supplying women with vocational skills and financial knowledge to boost female employment. Due to the Taliban Administration, the UNDP operates within areas where exceptions to the constraints on women apply or where locally informed solutions exist.

The Situation in Afghanistan

Since August 2021 the Afghan economy has been in decline. In 2022, the number of households not having income to meet basic necessities rose from 16% to 36%. Policies under the Taliban Administration have had an especially limiting impact on women in Afghanistan, with restrictions imposed on education and employment.

In response to the situation, the UNDP adapted its programs to an integrated local development effort – Area-Based Approach to Development Emergency Initiatives (ABADEI). To prevent further economic breakdown, this program applies solutions at a community-based level. Grants are provided to small businesses, with a focus on supporting female-run organizations. Maintaining these local economies supports keeping structure and purpose within Afghan communities. The funds are supplied from U.N. contributions, in combination with the “Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan.” This fund coordinates support from UNDP agencies and non-government organizations.

Supporting Women in Afghanistan

In their support of female-owned businesses, UNDP aims to reboot the Afghan economy by supporting job creation and basic social services. Applying a “women for women” approach, it supplies the financial and technical support to women required to create employment. The UNDP supported 8,728 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises through in-kind and cash support, 49.2% of these were female-led, according to its website.

An area whereby the ABADEI programme has successfully implemented its goal is expanding community kitchens. Partnered with Care Afghanistan, these kitchens feed families and provide a source of income for those who work there.

Tamana Akbari

As a single mother, before these kitchens, Tamana Akbari had no source of income. In joining she has developed new relationships aiding in growing her confidence and social skills. The benefits are not just social, Tamana now has also fostered new culinary skills and is earning a salary of her own. She now acts as the sole breadwinner for her family.

Across five provinces there are a total of 47 community kitchens, these kitchens have provided 153,000 hot meals, feeding over 86,870 people. Organizations like these, foster social cohesion whilst also providing empowerment for women like Tamana, who prepare the meals. Fifteen female-run kitchens have supplied food for thousands. In Herat, alongside three men, 147 women distributed 2,200 free meals a day.

Local communities have embraced this initiative, and supported by UNDP’s ABADEI program, women in Afghanistan are being inspired to start similar projects of their own.

– Amelia Short

Amelia is based in Bradford, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Vanuatu

Women’s Rights in VanuatuVanuatu is located in the South of the Pacific Ocean, about 1750 km (1087.4 miles) east of Australia. This island is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful nature; nevertheless, behind this beauty, women in Vanuatu are in a constant struggle, facing significant challenges in their fight for equal rights. Despite considerable progress in recent years, women’s rights in Vanuatu remain challenged by numerous obstacles, including early marriage, domestic violence and limited access to education, as they strive for equality.

Access to Education

Women’s rights are significantly impacted by limited access to education, with a noticeable gender disparity favoring boys. Cultural norms often prioritize boys’ education, leading to higher dropout rates among girls. Economic constraints force families to choose which children to send to school, usually favoring boys.

Additionally, early marriage and domestic responsibilities further limit girls’ ability to continue their education. Efforts by the government and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) aim to address these disparities through policies and programs promoting girls’ education. Still, community awareness and involvement are crucial in changing attitudes and ensuring equal opportunities for all children.

Early Marriage Among Girls

In Vanuatu, girls can marry with their parents’ consent at the age of 16. As a result, it is common to see early marriages, especially in remote areas. In some regions, traditions suggest that a girl is ready for marriage and intercourse as soon as she begins menstruating. Girls who marry at a young age often lack the maturity and resources to assert their rights, making them more vulnerable to abuse. Early marriages can perpetuate cycles of poverty and dependency, which can lead to increased domestic violence.

Domestic Violence

The majority of women in Vanuatu, 60%, have experienced sexual and physical violence in their lives. These women also face emotional abuse, often worsened by traditional gender roles that disregard such violence. A strong movement is emerging as women join forces to end domestic violence in Vanuatu. Rallying under the slogan “In unity, our advocacy becomes a chorus,” these committed women are working relentlessly to fight domestic violence and advance gender equality.

Their united efforts involve raising awareness, supporting victims and advocating for stronger legal protections. By standing together, they amplify their voices and become a powerful force for change, aiming to create a safer and more just society for all women on the Island.

Organizations Addressing the Issues

The Vanuatu Women’s Center (VWC) is working on several projects, including the Family Protection Unit, which provides legal aid and counseling to survivors of domestic violence. It also conducts community education programs that aim to raise awareness about women’s rights and gender-based violence. In 2022, the organization hosted a workshop with 17 participants from eight villages across the Island, educating them about gender, discrimination, sex, gender equality and stereotypes.

Furthermore, the Department of Women’s Affairs (DWA) is involved in initiatives like the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Policy, which aims to improve women’s access to education, health care and economic opportunities. It also supports local women’s groups to promote gender equality. International organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are also backing projects such as the Girls’ Education Project, which focuses on increasing school enrollment and retention rates for girls. They also support programs that aim to delay early marriages by educating communities about the importance of keeping girls in school.

Conclusion

While Vanuatu faces significant challenges regarding early marriage, education and domestic violence, there is a growing movement toward positive change. Efforts by local and international organizations are beginning to bear fruit, with increased awareness and advocacy leading to more educational opportunities for girls and stronger protections against domestic violence. As the community continues to unite to support women’s rights, there is hope for a brighter, more equitable future for all women in Vanuatu.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How School Meal Programs Keep Girls in School

School Meal ProgramsAccording to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), an estimated 122 million girls of primary and secondary school age are not enrolled in school worldwide. Many are pulled out to take on domestic roles or are married off as young as 14 to alleviate financial pressures on their families, such as food. Girls are particularly disadvantaged in impoverished countries and regions affected by fragility, conflict and violence (FCV), where they are 2.5 times more likely than boys to be out of school.

School Meal Programs

School meal programs in countries where girls face disproportionate barriers provide a strong incentive for families to send their daughters to school and keep them enrolled. This will, in turn, delay marriage and pregnancy as well as empower young women. A study conducted by the Frontiers of Public Health proved this, finding that completing ninth grade considerably increases the chances of girls delaying marriage until 18 and pregnancy until 20.

The strong correlation between education and child marriage stresses the urgency of prioritizing female education and enrollment in low- and middle-income countries. Implementing school meal programs is a sustainable and effective way to do so. It has been shown to cause a significant increase in female enrollment and school completion. Addressing the issue of child pregnancy is imperative, as the leading cause of death among adolescent girls is maternal mortality.

In developing countries where women and girls are often last to eat, many experience malnourishment, which is exacerbated by the intense physical and nutritional demands of breastfeeding and pregnancy. This malnutrition, combined with the fact that their bodies are not fully developed to endure the stress of pregnancy, puts pregnant adolescents at a higher risk of having low-birthweight babies and facing maternal mortality. However, this cycle can be broken by keeping girls in school and improving their nutrition through school meal programs.

Further Benefits

Moreover, students better focus in class when getting the nutrition they need; thus, eating at school boosts their academic performance and motivates them to go to school and participate. With the improvement of children’s physical health through school meal programs, they are less likely to miss school due to illness. A study in South Africa found that among the many positive spillover effects of school meal programs, families of students benefiting from them recorded less health spending than of the latter. In addition, the study found that the programs had a more pronounced impact on girls and rural communities.

School meal programs also stimulate local economies by creating business opportunities for smallholder farmers who source the meals and by creating jobs for those organizing and distributing them. They also reduce the financial stress on vulnerable families, allowing them to save about 10% of their income. In fact, according to an analysis done by the World Food Programme (WFP), communities saw a $9 economic return for every $1 allocated to school meals. Similarly, it found that 1,400 jobs were created with every 100,000 children fed, which translates to around four million jobs spanning 85 countries.

Solely through school meals, we can not only encourage families to prioritize education for their children, especially daughters but indirectly strengthen local economies and contribute to the fight against global poverty.

Progress

Figures from the WFP have shown that globally, school meal programs can boost enrollment rates by an average of 9%, with a 12% increase specifically for girls. These programs have also been linked to an 8% improvement in attendance. Notably, in Pakistan, before school meal programs were implemented, 48% of households did not send any girls to school. Five years after the program started, the WFP found that all households educated at least one daughter.

Currently, there are school meal programs in 161 countries and daily meals are provided to more than 418 million children worldwide. The WFP allocates $48 billion annually to support these programs and hopes to transition the ownership of such programs to national governments. To date, 50 countries have made this transition. More than 80% of all programs have been encompassed into national policies in some way and others are expected to follow.

With school meal programs operating in almost every country, the scale of impact varies by region. For instance, India has immense coverage, feeding 130 million children daily. Similarly, Brazil feeds 50 million. Even in impoverished countries with smaller budgets, these programs are making a meaningful difference by prioritizing children from the most vulnerable families.

Looking Forward

With 73 million children in 60 different countries still left vulnerable and with no access to school meals, there is still work to be done. The WFP continues to work with governments globally, especially in regions where girls are more vulnerable, to support school meal programs and reaffirm its commitments as per the School Meals Coalition. Its goal is for “every child to have access to a daily, healthy meal in school by 2030.”

– Rebecca Aziz

Rebecca is based in Middleton, WI, USA and focuses on Business and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UN Women Empowering Women in the Caribbean

Women in the CaribbeanThe Caribbean is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes. However, there is also a hidden persistence in its struggles against poverty and inequality. This is particularly the case in terms of gender, specifically for women. About 2.2% of women and girls in the Caribbean live in poverty at the $1.90 poverty line. Additionally, for every 100 men living in poverty, there are approximately 113 women, highlighting the gender disparity in economic hardship.

The United Nations (U.N.) Women is an organization dedicated to collaborating with Caribbean communities on initiatives aimed at addressing poverty and promoting female empowerment. Additionally, it focuses on promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, leadership and ending violence.

Causes of Gender Poverty in the Caribbean

Numerous factors contribute to the poverty faced by women and girls in the Caribbean. One key factor is education. While girls often outperform boys in school, many women struggle to transition to higher education or the workforce. This is due to unequal family responsibilities, early pregnancies and societal expectations. According to the World Bank, “one in three young women are not engaged in education, employment or training and are constrained due to their unequal role in family responsibilities, early pregnancy and gender norms that relegate them to the domestic sphere.”

The second factor is social norms and gender roles. In the Caribbean, traditional gender roles often confine women to the domestic sphere. This limits their opportunities for economic advancement and reinforces the cycle of poverty. Additionally, a significant contributor to women’s poverty is the prevalence of female-headed households. In many families, women are seen as the primary providers, which increases dependency and places significant financial strain on these households.

About UN Women’s Work in the Caribbean

The U.N. Women is actively engaged in several key areas to promote gender equality and empower women in the Caribbean. The purpose of the organization in the region and also globally is to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment. Some of the key areas it focuses on include:

  1. Leadership and Political Participation: U.N. Women supports initiatives to increase women’s participation in political and public life.
  2. Ending Violence Against Women: The organization offers several programs, including awareness campaigns, support services and policy advocacy, to fight gender-based violence against women.
  3. Economic Empowerment: It focuses on enhancing women’s economic opportunities by providing training, resources and support to help them enter and thrive in the workforce.

Successful Programs in the Caribbean

The U.N. Women has implemented highly successful programs that have been instrumental in empowering women in the Caribbean. Some of these include:

  1. Joint Program to Empower Women and Youth in Agri-Fisheries: Launched in 2020 in collaboration with the Government of Japan and other U.N. agencies, this program supported more than 162,000 people in the Caribbean, particularly women and marginalized youth. It focuses on enhancing livelihoods in agriculture, fisheries and small business sectors across countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Dominica.
  2. Women leadership: The organization has also supported the implementation of the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership (CIWiL), which fosters training programs for women aspiring to take a political or leadership role. This helps women in terms of reputation and participation in decision-making.
  3. Economic Empowerment: The nonprofit has also partnered with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to strengthen the rights of domestic workers in the Caribbean. In Jamaica, U.N. Women helped the Household Workers Association to become a formal union, providing a platform to promote the rights of more than 50,000 workers in the country.

Final Remarks

With the ongoing support of U.N. Women, there is hope that women and girls in the Caribbean will one day achieve lasting success and break free from the cycle of poverty. Indeed, by providing resources, education and opportunities, these efforts are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for the region’s women and girls.

– Destiny Cobos

Destiny is based in Brooklyn, NY and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Gender Advocacy in Suriname

gender advocacy in SurinameSuriname is a developing country located just above the equator in northern South America, though it is also part of the Caribbean Community. Dutch colonial governance defined its history, but the nation gained independence in 1975. Despite its small size, the country is famous for its plentiful natural resources and vast rainforest cover. As one of the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), gender equality is an important point of action for Suriname due to its links to poverty reduction and economic growth. In 2022, the Ministry of Home Affairs held a brainstorming session on how the nation could address SDG 5 to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”. This drew out equal economic participation, gender issues at work and respect for women’s voices as key to a sustainable future.

Gender advocacy in Suriname has come in various forms, from promoting women’s job opportunities to increasing their political representation. The country has made progress, such as increased labor force participation from 41.4% in 2011 to 44.3% in 2022. However, the World Bank also found that behind such statistics, nine in every 50 women aged 15-49 are in vulnerable employment positions, as of 2022.

Economic Opportunities

One important aim for the country is setting women up for economic success, uplifting women out of poverty and instilling financial stability. The Ministry of Home Affairs has targeted this by establishing its 2021-2035 Gender Vision Policy. This highlighted sector disparities, unequal access to economic resources and difficulties in women accessing formal work. Its answer to these issues was gender mainstreaming, allowing the application and monitoring of gender-responsive policies across departments.

While the full success of this vision is yet to be seen, the agricultural sector has already seen an increase in female participation from 4.65% in 2011 to 5.68% in 2022, according to the World Bank.

Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE), which is a program that focuses on supporting women-owned businesses in Suriname, also advocates for women’s professional development. The project is part of the Suriname Energy, Oil and Gas Summit and originated in 2023. It aims to achieve gender advocacy by boosting the participants’ pitching, leadership and networking skills to empower women working in the sector.

Legal and Political Representation

Gender equality is established on a basic level in the Surinamese Constitution, as Article 35 declares that “Man and woman are equal before the law,” according to the Gender Vision Policy document. The Gender Vision Policy aims that beyond this “all legislation will have been adapted, strengthened and approved and implemented to promote gender equality and to eliminate gender-related discrimination.” In particular, this will involve intersectionality to address the discrimination against Indigenous women, promotion of equal pay and prevention of forced marriages.

Hope for the achievement of these aims can be inferred from the increasing political representation of women in Suriname. From 2011 to 2022, the proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments has increased from 11.8% to 29.4%, according to the World Bank.

However, men still hold over double as many seats in parliament as women, so closing the gap is a long-term priority for the country.

Women’s Health

Menstrual and reproductive health are vital points of action for gender advocacy in Suriname. Addressing these issues allows women and girls to reach their full potential. As a part of this, the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) has been working in Suriname on its mission to improve women’s health. Launched in 2021, its initiative to end period poverty has involved the provision of period pad kits. The First Lady of Suriname also received one of these kits in 2023. The Ministry of Public Health in Suriname has also addressed women’s health via a workshop in 2023 in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The importance of family planning to gender equality and poverty reduction raised, which is particularly relevant when the country’s contraceptive prevalence dropped from 47.2% in 2010 to 38.7% in 2018, according to the World Bank. The workshop showed positive aims for practical engagement, empowerment of women and raising awareness of their options.

Gender Advocacy in Suriname: Final Thoughts

Suriname currently scores 77 out of 100 in an index rating on the life cycle of a working woman, according to the World Bank. While progress in employment and politics has been significant, family commitments and social norms still hold women back. Gender advocacy in Suriname must maintain its diverse range of aims as well as the uniting principles of equality and empowerment.

– Daisy Outram

Daisy is based in Kent, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Ehsaas Program: Empowering Women and Fighting Poverty

The Ehsaas ProgramThe Ehsaas Program, launched by the Government of Pakistan, has become one of the world’s most recognized social protection initiatives. Ehsaas is a word in the Urdu language meaning “to feel,” representing empathy and a commitment to helping those in need. It is the Government of Pakistan’s comprehensive initiative to tackle poverty and inequality. Launched to mitigate the socioeconomic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ehsaas has provided financial relief to millions of vulnerable households, particularly women, through direct cash transfers. The program, led by Dr. Sania Nishtar (currently serving as the CEO of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance), continues to be a model for innovative and scalable poverty alleviation.

Global Recognition and Impact

In a 2021 report by the World Bank, Pakistan’s Ehsaas Emergency Cash Program was highlighted for its remarkable reach, ranking fourth globally in terms of the number of people covered and third in terms of the percentage of the population served. The Ehsaas Emergency Cash initiative disbursed stipends of PKR 12,000 ($48) to nearly 15 million households, benefiting more than 100 million people—almost half of Pakistan’s population. The World Bank praised the program for its rapid rollout and extensive coverage, calling it one of the most impressive large-scale social protection measures worldwide.

Economic Empowerment Through Targeted Initiatives

A significant aspect of the Ehsaas Program is its emphasis on women’s empowerment. More than 50% of its initiatives focus on providing financial security to women. By targeting women for poverty alleviation and supporting the United Nations (U.N.) SDG 5 on gender equality, Ehsaas is empowering women economically and socially.

The Ehsaas Kafaalat Program provides direct cash transfers to low-income women, ensuring that they have the financial support needed for necessities such as food, health care and education. Women have been the focal point of the Ehsaas Interest-Free Loan Scheme, which enables them to start small businesses and gain financial independence. Nishtar highlighted how the empowerment of women is beneficial for society and the economy and that the “government is determined to lift seven million poorest women in Pakistan out of poverty and help them achieve their potential.”

Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods

The Ehsaas Aamdan Program provides sustainable assets such as sewing machines, shops, livestock and vehicles to help individuals generate long-term income. This asset-based approach empowers women to contribute to their families’ economic stability while fostering entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.

Similarly, the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program promotes gender-sensitive financial support for nutrition. Families receive $7.18 for girls and $5.39 for boys younger than 2 years of age, which not only provides vital nutrition for children but also encourages a shift in societal attitudes toward gender equality. By offering higher financial incentives for female children, the program aims to combat cultural practices like female feticide and emphasize the value of female children.

Final Remark

Ehsaas’ implementation provides valuable lessons for other nations, especially in light of the recent crises that have highlighted the need to redefine the role of the welfare state. This presents a unique chance to create a pivotal moment in advancing global social welfare. Moreover, its emphasis on gender equality mirrors the development strategies of economically advanced countries, which have leveraged the potential of their female populations to achieve sustainable growth.

This realization is paving the way for Pakistan’s future economic, social and political development, with women playing a crucial role in these advancements. By empowering women, the Ehsaas Program is driving Pakistan closer to achieving its national development goals while addressing the pressing issues of poverty and inequality.

– Irtija Ahmad

Irtija is based in Slough, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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JUST Empowers Women Entrepreneurs Beyond Credit Barriers

Credit BarriersIn the vast landscape of financial services, the barriers faced by individuals with low incomes and poor credit histories are often insurmountable. Traditional lending institutions rely heavily on credit scores, which can disadvantage those historically marginalized or who have fallen victim to financial setbacks. This systemic issue has contributed to the perpetuation of poverty, especially among minority communities. However, a groundbreaking organization named JUST is rewriting the rules of lending to address these credit barriers, offering a unique approach that makes a tangible difference in the lives of many.

The Traditional Lending Dilemma

For individuals like Leti, a Hispanic woman who experienced a profound personal loss, the conventional financial system can seem both impersonal and inaccessible. After the tragic loss of her child, Leti’s food truck business, once her lifeline, collapsed. As her financial situation worsened, she struggled to secure traditional loans and lacked savings to fall back on. With her prospects dwindling, Leti began cleaning homes to make ends meet.

A New Hope: JUST

Leti’s fortunes took a turn when she discovered JUST, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Hispanic and Black female entrepreneurs. Founded to provide financial assistance without relying on traditional credit scores, JUST operates on a trust and community support model. Its approach has proven effective: it has disbursed more than $21 million in loans with a remarkable 99% repayment rate.

Steve Wanta, CEO and co-founder of JUST, explains that their method represents a departure from the conventional financial system’s reliance on credit scores. “Our financial system in the United States is not designed to trust people, especially those without money,” Wanta asserts. “Credit scores don’t paint an accurate picture of capability for thousands of people who have, in some cases, been penalized by the system or can’t get a foothold in the first place. Building up a longstanding credit history is impossible without that initial foothold.”

Breaking down Credit Barriers

JUST’s innovative model involves assessing individuals based on their potential and character rather than their financial history. When Leti applied for a loan through JUST, the organization met her with an empathetic and supportive process. No one asked for her credit score or scrutinized the failure of her previous venture. Instead, it gave her a $750 loan based on trust and belief in her potential to succeed.

Leti’s experience with JUST showcases the effectiveness of its approach. Before receiving a loan, she cleaned four houses a week, barely making ends meet. After joining the JUST community, she secured the funding to revitalize her business. With support from JUST’s peer coaches and a network of women entrepreneurs who had overcome similar challenges, her cleaning business flourished. What started as a one-person operation has become a successful enterprise, now employing more than 30 people.

Final Note

The success of JUST’s model underscores the power of trust in financial transactions. JUST has created a lifeline for those who might otherwise be excluded from the financial system by offering loans based on character and potential rather than credit scores. This approach supports individual entrepreneurs and fosters community development and economic empowerment.

As Leti’s story demonstrates, providing opportunities to those who might be overlooked can lead to remarkable outcomes. With continued support and innovation, JUST is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable financial landscape, proving that trust and community can be powerful tools in the fight against poverty.

– Sakshi Bhagat

Sakshi is based in Kolkata, West Bengal, India and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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The Chomuzangari Cooperative: Food Security in Masvingo

The Chomuzangari Cooperative: Food Security in MasvingoIn many rural, impoverished parts of Zimbabwe, women are the primary producers of staple food within households. However, many face discrimination that detracts from their access to resources and decision-making capabilities. The Chomuzangari Cooperative bolsters female participation, empowerment and mental health in these areas. Furthermore, the Cooperative directly enhances food security, water access and education. Individuals who have directly experienced the challenges of rural life in Zimbabwe drive the success of the Cooperative. The Welsh Government, through Hub Cymru Africa, largely funds and supports this initiative.

Women in Masvingo

In the Chivi District of Masvingo Province, where women form the majority of the population at 787,098, they traditionally play a diminished role in community decision-making. The Chomuzangari Cooperative aims to empower these women by boosting their confidence and self-esteem, ensuring their voices are heard and their participation increases. The theory is simple: with more resources and confidence, women can enhance food production in the area. A significant method for bolstering self-esteem is through education. To make education more accessible to everyone in the community, the Cooperative has introduced e-learning resources, including Raspberry Pi technology.

Mental Health

In addition to enhancing learning, water access, sanitation and hygiene, the Cooperative also focuses on destigmatizing mental health in Zimbabwe. Typically, mental health services are concentrated in hospitals in major urban centers, leaving rural areas poorly served. Rural mental health care suffers from stigma, resource constraints and staff shortages. Moreover, care for the mentally ill often falls on women, which can be traumatic and detrimental to their mental health. By boosting female self-esteem, the Cooperative hopes to not only support women through these challenges but also empower them to advocate for improvements in the mental health system.

3 Success Stories of Women in Masvingo

  1. Nutritious Veg Gardens. By encouraging women in Masvingo to gather and share nutrient-rich recipes and foods, the community saw a significant boost in local nutrition. Women in the area started a one-hectare nutrition garden where they planted nutritious crops such as rodade tomatoes, Texas Grano onions, cabbage, kale and much more. This initiative dramatically improved the quality of life for women and enhanced food security in the region, as it eliminated the need for women to travel 90 kilometers to Chivi Growth Point or 140 kilometers to Masvingo town to buy fresh vegetables.
  2. Access to Clean Water. Following a collaborative initiative with Hope Foundation, funded by the Welsh Government, thousands of Chomuzangari residents now have access to clean drinking water. The program financed the installation of a borehole, a solar pump and a 5,000-liter storage tank. Local volunteers contributed by making bricks and installing parts of the system. This development ended the previous burden of walking 3-8 kilometers to collect water. Now, nearly all women in the district live within 500 meters of a water point. This significantly reduces food insecurity and prevents children from missing school to fetch water.
  3. Protection of Crops. Due to a new fence constructed with the help of 67 volunteers, 600 women can now grow more food for their families. This fence, which encloses a hectare of garden space for growing vegetables, was funded by a grant from the Welsh Government. The initiative recognizes that protecting crops from animals is essential for fostering food security in the region.

Looking Ahead

The Chomuzangari Cooperative has significantly enhanced the perception of women and the quality of life in entire communities throughout the Masvingo region. Before the project began, the changing climate, discrimination and limited resources severely hindered women’s ability to provide food for their families. Although these challenges persist, the Cooperative’s ongoing efforts and funding have greatly mitigated their impact.

– Bea Newington-Bridges

Bea is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr