Supporting women farmers in Rwanda
16-09-2024COAMANYA is a cooperative located in Kibirizi sector, Nyanza district, Rwanda. It is engaged in the production, collection, marketing and processing of maize as their main business activities. Initially formed as a farmer group in 2007, the cooperative was officially certified by the Rwanda Cooperative Agency (RCA) in 2011. The cooperative is composed by 1382 members, including 707 females.
The story of Abishyizehamwe-Kagarama female saving group
In 2023, after a female leadership training provided by Agriterra, the cooperative established a women's council and a female saving group, called Abishyizehamwe-Kagarama. This group consists of 13 dedicated female members who initially contributed a monthly capital of 5,000 Rwf each. Due to financial constraints, the monthly contribution has since been reduced to 2,000 Rwf per member.
The primary vision of Abishyizehamwe-Kagarama is to empower women by boosting their self-confidence, encouraging them to take leadership positions and enhancing their financial literacy and economic status. By fostering a sense of financial independence and leadership, the group aims to uplift its members and their families. Ultimately, it strives to improve the overall livelihoods of its members’ families through collective effort and mutual support. The dedication and commitment of these women highlight their determination to achieve significant socio-economic progress within their community.
The support from Nyanza District
Following the formation of the female savings group, the Nyanza District enthusiastically embraced Agriterra's initiative to empower women in cooperatives. Recognising the potential impact, the district offered substantial support to the newly established women's group, underscoring its commitment to fostering female empowerment and economic development.
The support provided by the district is valued at a total of 7,500,000 Rwf. This generous contribution includes 1,020 chickens and various essential tools to ensure their proper care. Among these tools are 106 tiles, 48 cement bags, 100 trees, 20 drinking water containers, 20 chicken feeding equipment, and 30 kilograms of nails. Additionally, the district provided a one-month veterinary service to ensure the health and well-being of the chickens.
The women's group was tasked with managing casual workers for construction activities, showcasing their organisational capabilities and dedication. To build a shelter for the chickens, a member of the group generously lent a plot for 20 years, demonstrating the strong sense of community and mutual support within the group.
This collaboration between the Nyanza District and the women's group highlights the power of cooperative efforts in driving sustainable development. The resources and support provided by the district have significantly bolstered the group's capacity to achieve their goals. By leveraging the support from the district and the dedication of its members, the women's group is well-positioned to enhance their economic status and contribute to the broader development of their community. This initiative serves as a model for similar groups and underscores the importance of community-based efforts in achieving lasting socio-economic progress.
