Post by Hand in Hand Eastern Africa

The review of the Gender Economic Empowerment (GEE) project in Voi and Kibwezi has been nothing short of inspiring! The 5-year project (Nov 2023 – Oct 2028) is already showing transformative results in tackling harmful gender norms and equipping 3,000 women and men with entrepreneurial and financial management skills. 👥 The review has brought together implementing staff on the ground and relevant departments, with powerful field visits to witness firsthand the progress of local enterprises. 🐟 At Wundanyi, the Chomboke Fish Farmers showcased their thriving ponds and group savings culture, proving how collective effort and training can turn subsistence into sustainable business. 🤝 The Zaire Self Help Group demonstrated resilience and innovation, embodying the spirit of community-driven economic empowerment. The project has witnessed the following successes; • Increased profitability and resilience of enterprises • Improved record-keeping and business practices • Greater access to credit and wider markets • Enhanced savings culture among members • Shifts in gender-equitable attitudes, breaking barriers for women The journey continues with Cohort 1 running until Oct 2026 and Cohort 2 thereafter, ensuring more communities sustainably exit the poverty cycle. The focus will remain on scaling up successes, deepening gender norm transformation, and expanding market linkages. 💡 The takeaway: Empowering communities at the bottom of the pyramid is not just about income. It’s about dignity, equality, and sustainable futures. #GenderEquality #EconomicEmpowerment #SustainableEnterprises #BreakingBarriers #CommunityResilience #Voi #Kibwezi #TransformingLives