SUCCESS STORY KYAKA II : In the heart of Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, the Women and Girls Safe Spaces (WGSS) project, managed by the Alight Uganda, has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for displaced women. This transformative initiative has provided a platform for economic empowerment, mental health support, and community cohesion.
With a focus on tailoring skills, financial literacy, and psychosocial support, the project has positively impacted the lives of women from Kakoni, Kaborogota, and Bwiriza safe spaces. Equipped with sewing machines, financial literacy tools, and mental health awareness, the women are breaking barriers and building resilience in the face of displacement.
The project trained 90 women in tailoring, equipping them with practical skills to produce quality garments and earn an income. Alongside this, women were introduced to Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), empowering them with financial literacy and fostering a culture of saving. Through these efforts, the women have not only achieved self-reliance but also strengthened their sense of community. Nyabizana Neema, an 18-year-old beneficiary, shared her gratitude for the training, which she believes will pave the way for her future development. Neema said “This training will enable me to have a good future development and self-support.”
Furthermore, mental health and psychosocial support were integral to the program, with 60 women receiving training in Psychosocial First Aid (PFA). This enabled them to address psychological distress, break stigma, and build a support network among their peers.
Despite challenges such as limited funding and staffing, the project surpassed its initial goals, directly benefiting 110 women and girls while indirectly impacting 56 others.
The determination and resilience of the women have been a driving force behind its success. Testimonials, like that of Speciose, a 40-year-old woman with a disability, highlight the project’s life-changing impact, as it has fostered a sense of belonging and dignity. “I used to feel worthless due to my disability, but now I am full of friends and freely come to the women centre without feeling stigma.” Speciose Said.
The achievements of this initiative underscore the power of women empowerment and community support, leaving a legacy of hope and inspiring future programs in Kyaka II.
