Women and Progress

In recognition of how well they manage their money and businesses on a cooperative basis, the International Collaborative awarded grants to the Monduli Pastoralist Women’s Organization (MPWO) and each of the Widow’s Groups.

The groups do not need the grants to survive, but we present them as recognition for their strength and success,

The ICSEE wishes encourage them with this honor, as they continue to thrive. It is a good thing to give a boost when things are going well.

Time for celebration

The ICSEE hosted celebrations in Longido, Nanja and Losirwa with four women’s groups at each. Ms. Rose Mhina, Head of the Community Development Office of the District Government, was Featured Speaker at the two sessions in Monduli District. She is very supportive of the work we are doing with the women in her district.

Women and Progress-then and now

In 2013, the expert women installing the International Collaborative stoves began the Monduli Pastoralist Women’s Organization (MPWO).They continue to run their successful ongoing cattle fattening business.Today, as women become ICSEE installers in each new village, they also join the MPWO.

Outstanding organizing

In 2018, the International Collaborative began a collaboration with the Global Fund for Widows, and have put together eleven widow’s groups to date.

Led by Mesha Singolyo, an outstanding organizing team stays close to the women, and often attends the groups’ weekly meetings.

All eleven groups are thriving. Each group has livestock businesses and enjoys the benefits of collaboration and managing their own community banks.

Improvement for village economies

These businesses are particularly valuable because unlike so many enterprises, the buyers are outsiders— from the meat food chain. This means that the profits from sales come from outside, and is real enrichment for the women’s villages.

In all the villages, these groups benefit from the support of men who respect what the women are doing. Seasoned herdsmen form advisory committees and share advice on the livestock businesses. I am happy to see high quality organizing practices that foster community development possibilities.