Throughout the developing world, many people who live in rural and high density areas are victims of poverty. In this regard, research has shown that women and children are the most affected since they do not own and control sources of livelihoods. Empowering women is crucial for ending hunger and poverty. By denying women rights and opportunities, we deny their children and societies a better future.
Women play a critical in the rural and urban economies of both developed and developing countries. In most parts of the developing world they participate in crop production and livestock care, provide food and fuel for their families, and engage in off-farm activities to diversify their families’ livelihoods.
As stated above, Zimbabwe is not an exception in that aspect. As such, it is important for YAWEG to moot various poverty alleviation strategies that will reduce women poverty especially those living in the rural and high density areas. These alleviation programmes will help women to start small business in their communities, so they can earn a sustainable income, pay for food and medical care, send their children to school and accumulate savings for long-term family stability.
YAWEG will introduce entrepreneurial programmes and providing skills in candle making, computer training, market gardening ,production of drinks, food outlets (making of potato chips) weaving, cutting and designing, interior decor ,hair dressing, knitting, embroidery , piggery and poultry rearing. The poultry programme will aim to build local capacity to develop, lead and implement innovative solutions for the improvement of livelihoods through poultry production and marketing related to small-scale poultry production.
The above mentioned programmes will not be successful without the intervention of community leaders. As such, YAWEG will work hand in glove with the community leaders and mentors to discuss collaboration.
YAWEG in collaboration with mentors will ensemble business groups and help them write a business plan (including projected start up costs, budget, and a savings plan). Mentoring will continue for a period not less than two years, including instruction, help with record-keeping, mediation and advise.
After a satisfactory proposal, YAWEG will provide a seed –capital Jump Grant. These grants will be disbursed in public setting with all participants to minimise the embezzlement of the project funds.