Model and Strategy
Women for Women International, (WfWI) seeks to address extreme poverty in one of the most poor, conflict-affected countries in the world—the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The overall purpose of WfWI’s proposed project is to reduce poverty of 300 ultra-poor, displaced and socially-excluded women in South Kivu, DRC through improved livelihoods and access to resources.
The women will receive 12 months of life skills training, business and vocational skills development, and group savings and loans support. WfWI focuses on supporting women to achieve four key outcomes: 1) earn and save money; 2) develop health and wellbeing; 3) influence decisions in their homes and communities; and 4) connect to networks for support and advocacy. WfWI provides a constructive, dignified way for women to regain control of their lives, so they can lift themselves out of poverty, invest more into their families—such sending their children to school—and rebuild their communities.
Impact
Building strong livelihoods:1) 98% are saving, up from 29%; 2) increase in average daily income from $0.62 to over $1.25; 3) 91% use vocational skills to earn income.
Expanding access to vital services: 1) as needed, women are referred to medical, legal or psychosocial services; 2) 83% participate in informal or formal savings groups, up from 21%.
Promoting social inclusion: 1) 77% have knowledge of their rights, up from 1%; 2) 98% participate in social networks, up from 28%.
Leadership
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Jennifer Windsor
CEO
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Gertrude Mudekereza
Country Program Director For WFWI-DRC