Women in Africa, Uganda inclusive, are an economically disadvantaged group, and rural women in particular are more economically disadvantaged. The lack of economic power of the rural communities, especially among women, is a major obstacle to long-term development. Although women have a great contribution to the African socio-economic development, in Uganda, they remain among the most vulnerable members of society. Women face many challenges, including discrimination, low social status, low literacy rates, limited access to education, unequal rights, poverty, anda greater risk of HIV/AIDS infection, which is directly attributed to the long-standing patriarchal traditions and extreme poverty.
These challenges are especially difficult to overcome for women, as there are fewer jobs available to them, and family concerns can often monopolize their time. Gender roles in rural Uganda still adhere to traditional and cultural codes. When a family is struggling economically, girls are more likely than boys to be taken out of school to help with income-generating activities or agricultural labor, and they are more likely to be married at a young age.
The project aims to provide support to young women in developing the skills needed to carry out income-generating activities so they can provide for themselves and their families.
If you’re someone who is interested in promoting better opportunities for women in Uganda, this is a rewarding project to support. This is where you come in!
What will I be doing?
As a volunteer on the Women’s Empowerment project, you will work closely with local community centers, providing support to women and their families. Your role will be focused on providing mentoring support around management, financing, and educational development to increase independence among the women and allow mothers to better support their families. Many of the women’s groups are involved in craft-making through basket weaving, sewing, tailoring, and jewelry-making, and the crafts they make are then sold in order to generate income and provide for their families. Volunteers are also encouraged to create educational training materials on topics such as managing finances, vocational skills, and building self-esteem.
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