Empower Every Woman: Equality, Progress, Inclusion
On this International Women’s Day 2025, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and determination of women transforming their communities. This year’s theme, “Empower Every Woman: Equality, Progress, Inclusion,” highlights the need for equal opportunities for all women and girls.
RACIDA and Concern Worldwide, through the Hanaano Programme, funded by Irish Aid, are making this vision a reality by helping women achieve financial independence, sustainable livelihoods, and leadership roles.
Saving for a Better Tomorrow: Women’s Financial Groups Changing Lives
Women like Rahma Wardere and her peers from Bismillah Group in Mandera never imagined they could save money and start businesses. But through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), they have done just that.
“I never thought I could save money and start my own small business, but being part of the VSLA has changed my life,” says Rahma.
In just two months, her group saved Ksh 15,000. These funds allow them to invest in farming, support their families, and become financially independent. This VSLA program is supporting 375 Mothers in Mandera East,Mandera North,Banisa and Lafey.
Cultivating Change: Growing Food, Growing Futures
The Hanaano Programme has trained 480 women farmers across Mandera East, Mandera North, and Lafey in sustainable agriculture.
“Before this training, farming was unpredictable for us. Now, we have better harvests and more food for our families,” says Fatuma Ahmed from Mandera North.
Women have learned water conservation, pest control, and climate adaptation strategies. These skills are helping them increase food production, earn income, and fight hunger in their communities.
Poultry Farming Boosting Nutrition and Income
In Lulis, Mandera County, 30 women received 150 poultry to start their own small-scale farms. The impact has been life-changing.
“I used to worry about my children’s nutrition, but now, with eggs available daily, I know they are getting the nutrients they need,” says Asli Mohamed.
By selling surplus eggs and poultry, women are earning income while improving household nutrition—a step toward long-term food security.
Fuel-Efficient Stoves Saving Time and Money
Through the Hanaano Programme, 33 women have been trained to build and sell Fuel-Efficient Stoves (FES).
These stoves reduce firewood use, helping women spend less time collecting wood and more time on other productive activities. Families save money on fuel while also reducing indoor smoke, which improves respiratory health. By using less firewood, the initiative also contributes to environmental conservation.
“With these stoves, I spend less time collecting firewood and more time with my children,” shares a local mother.
Women are now turning stove-making into a business, helping their families earn and save money while promoting cleaner cooking solutions.
When Women Succeed, Communities Prosper
Thanks to the Irish Aid-funded Hanaano Programme, RACIDA and Concern Worldwide are helping women break barriers, gain independence, and build sustainable futures.
“Empowering women is about more than skills—it’s about confidence, leadership, and economic freedom,” says a community leader.As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let’s continue to empower every woman—because when women rise, communities thrive.
Happy International Women’s Day!!