Women as the bedrock of Development

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Many refugees, especially women, face significant challenges in achieving financial independence due to economic exclusion, gender discrimination, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 crisis. At Unidos, we believe that empowering female refugees through economic opportunities is a crucial step toward closing gaps in poverty, gender equality, and inclusive work. By providing skills training and economic support, we aim to strengthen local and global economies while ensuring women can thrive and provide for their families.

Transforming Lives Through Entrepreneurship

Our training programs equip women with vital entrepreneurial skills, such as soap making, allowing them to generate income and meet personal and family needs. These initiatives foster self-sufficiency and personal growth, inspiring women to recognize their value within their communities and become co-creators of meaningful change.

Why Focus on Women?

According to the UNHCR, self-reliance is the ability of individuals and communities to sustainably meet their essential needs while upholding their human rights and dignity. Women, as the backbone of families, play a pivotal role in ensuring household stability. By empowering them, we build resilient support systems that benefit entire communities.

Impact at a Glance
Women make up at least half of the refugee population and are often the most vulnerable.50%
Our goal is to promote their businesses and connect them with markets for financial independence.100%
Since 2019, we have trained over 1,000 women, with 250+ starting their own soap businesses.25%
Over 680 women can now produce soap for personal and family hygiene.68%

Women’s Circle Project

A Community-Led Initiative for Women’s Health & Well-being

Our journey began with extensive surveys of 100 women, followed by another survey of 500 women across 13 villages in Nakivale Refugee Settlement. The results revealed critical gaps in menstrual and reproductive health:

  • 93% lacked community support for women’s health.
  • 97% couldn’t access menstrual supplies.
  • 77% sought more health knowledge.
  • 98% expressed interest in joining community-led support groups.

In response, we launched Women’s Circles—safe, supportive spaces where women can discuss health, hygiene, and empowerment. These circles promote:

  • Education on menstrual and reproductive health.
  • Open discussions on women’s issues.
  • Access to essential hygiene resources
  • Skill-sharing and empowerment activities.
  • Advocacy against gender discrimination, early marriage, and sexual violence.


Pilot Program & Achievements

From September to December 2024, 38 women from Sudan, New Hope, and Kashojwa villages participated in interactive sessions on menstrual health, family planning, STI prevention, and gender-based violence. The results were outstanding:

  • 90% improved their understanding of menstrual hygiene.
  • 80% adopted healthier practices like family planning and STI prevention.
  • 95% showed interest in future sessions.
  • 100% enjoyed the program and made lasting connections.
  • 85% pledged to educate young women about menstruation.
  • Family planning use increased from 23% to 34%.

Expanding Our Reach

Going forward, we aim to:

  • Introduce menstrual cups, prenatal care education, and infant nutrition programs.
  • Provide economic opportunities through soap making, mushroom farming, permaculture, and sewing (including reusable menstrual pads).
  • Strengthen social support networks through mentoring programs that build confidence and skills.
  • Inspire lasting change by combining education, empowerment, and community-building.

Success Story:

I used to feel ashamed of my period and avoided discussing it. When I had vaginal health issues, I silently bought medicine without knowing if it was right for me. But thanks to the Women’s Circle sessions, I now openly share my concerns and seek informed answers. I feel confident and empowered to take care of myself. This project has changed my life, and I am proud to be part of a movement that uplifts women in my community.

Salima