By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – In a powerful stride toward gender equality and economic empowerment, World Vision Lesotho, in partnership with the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project Phase II (SADP II), has launched the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Project.
This transformative initiative, supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the World Bank, aims to uplift women and youth as catalysts for sustainable development across Lesotho, driving progress through agricultural and economic empowerment.
Speaking at the project’s launch, Mr. James Nkemba Chifwelu, the National Director of World Vision Lesotho, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative’s potential to shape Lesotho’s communities. “This project will provide critical access to resources, finance, and capacity-building opportunities, reshaping livelihoods and enhancing household nutrition,” Chifwelu said.
“Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen women’s leadership and economic opportunities, creating resilient communities led by empowered women.”
At its core, the GEWE project is grounded in a vision of hope, resilience, and unity, aiming to equip women and youth with resources that allow them to break free from cycles of poverty. The project aligns closely with World Vision’s mission to uplift vulnerable communities, as well as with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN), especially the goal of eradicating poverty by 2030.
“When we empower the most vulnerable,” Chifwelu added, “we are building a secure, sustainable future for everyone. Our aim is to create an environment where every child can reach their full potential.”
One of the project’s distinguishing features is its innovative approach to engaging communities. Recognizing the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the GEWE project includes community-driven strategies that involve men and local leaders as advocates for gender equality.
According to Chifwelu, “With the dedication of our partners and communities, this project will create a ripple effect, empowering countless women and youth to lift their communities toward a brighter future.”
This holistic approach underscores the idea that gender equality benefits everyone. By empowering women and youth, the project enhances the well-being and economic prospects of entire communities. As part of this effort, GEWE plans to provide tailored agricultural support for women farmers, fostering growth, resilience, and innovation within Lesotho’s agricultural sector. This focus on women in agriculture is particularly significant, as women play an integral role in ensuring food security and household nutrition across the country.
Representing the Minister of Gender, Youth, and Social Development, Ms. ‘Matau Futho highlighted the alignment of GEWE with SADP II’s commitment to holistic and inclusive development. “By prioritizing gender equality and women’s empowerment, SADP II reaffirms its dedication to a sustainable approach in agriculture that benefits all,” Futho noted. She emphasized the critical role women play in their households and communities, citing that women often reinvest up to 90% of their income back into family welfare, community growth, and education.
“When we address gender inequalities, we are not only helping marginalized women break cycles of poverty; we are creating pathways toward prosperity,” Futho remarked. She also commended World Vision Lesotho for its extensive experience in community empowerment, which made it an ideal partner for SADP II.
“I want to thank SADP II for entrusting World Vision with this mission. Through our past collaborations, we’ve seen the impact of World Vision’s commitment to gender equality, poverty alleviation, and community resilience,” she said.
Several beneficiaries of SADP I shared their success stories, highlighting how the project has transformed their lives. Kefuoehape Makhanya, a young woman from the Kopano ke Matla Resource Centre, expressed her gratitude for the support she received.
“SADP I has helped me immensely. I received shade nets, which allow me to produce crops throughout the year, an irrigation system, and business skills training. I’ve also learned the importance of nutrition and am now able to provide balanced meals for my family and support my community,” Makhanya shared.
Another beneficiary, Maneo Ntaopane, echoed this sentiment, noting how SADP support has enabled her to feed her family and generate income through sustainable farming. Their testimonies underscore the real impact of the GEWE project on the lives of ordinary Basotho, providing hope and inspiring others in their communities to pursue sustainable livelihoods through agriculture.
The collaboration between World Vision Lesotho, SADP II, IFAD, and the World Bank represents a powerful commitment to gender equality and sustainable development. By combining resources, expertise, and vision, these organizations are laying the foundation for a brighter future in Lesotho, where empowered women and youth can lead resilient, prosperous communities.
Through the GEWE project, they are advancing a vision of sustainable development that integrates gender equity and economic empowerment as core pillars, demonstrating that empowered women drive inclusive growth and long-term stability for entire communities.
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