Empowering Women Through Cooperative Development

Republic of Rwanda

Amount: € 269,901.00

Overview

The FIOM project promoted the economic empowerment of women from the Kayonza, Kirehe and Ngoma districts of Rwanda. Training was conducted on the Rwandan law governing cooperatives, as well as in financial management, processing of various products, machining techniques and production hygiene, entrepreneurship and marketing. Seven agri-processing centres were established and equipped, and this included ICT equipment and training in the use thereof. The project benefitted 706 women and 63 men and further helped to double the household income of the beneficiaries. A documentary was made about the project and products and infrastructure development have been showcased at an Open Day as well as by means of radio broadcasts. The project thus addresses Aspiration 6 of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, in which African development is people-driven, by unleashing the potential of its women and youth.

Key results

• It is estimated that the FIOM (Future In Our Minds) project has doubled the average household income of 706 vulnerable women and 63 men in the Eastern Province of Rwanda.
• The project assisted 30 female community-based associations to form 16 cooperatives which are self-managed, and which conform to the Rwandan law governing cooperatives.
• It further helped to establish and fully equip 7 agri-processing centres that include three corn processing plants, a beekeeping centre, pineapple and tomato processing plants, and a crafts centre to promote the craft industry.
• The provision of ICT equipment has ensured the efficient management of the cooperatives and the agri-processing centres. The project therefore created numerous new employment opportunities that improved the socio-economic status of the beneficiaries.