Women's Empowerment
Women are the backbone of community life in West Africa, yet they face persistent barriers to economic participation and leadership. MIWA's Women's Empowerment programme provides vocational training, savings group facilitation, and leadership development so that women can build independent income, advocate for their rights, and take part in local governance. We work alongside women, not for them.
What we do
Our activities
- Vocational and enterprise skills training (tailoring, agri-processing, food business)
- Village savings and loan association (VSLA) group facilitation
- Leadership and civic participation workshops
- Safe-space dialogue sessions on gender-based issues
- Mentorship linkages with women in business and public life
Who we serve
Our beneficiaries
Women aged 18–45, with priority for single mothers, women with limited formal education, and survivors of gender-based challenges.
Where we work
Geographic reach
Takoradi and surrounding communities in the Western Region.
Results
Outcomes & evidence
Draft figures — pending Financial Director confirmation
- Over 15 savings groups formed, with combined member savings exceeding GH₵ 80,000 (DRAFT figure)
- More than 80 women trained in vocational and enterprise skills
- Six women from programme cohorts have since taken on community leadership roles
Questions
Common questions about Women's Empowerment
Do I need prior experience to join the women's empowerment programme?
No prior experience is needed. The programme is designed for women at different starting points. All you need is commitment and the recommendation of your community or a MIWA contact.
Are the savings groups linked to a formal bank?
Groups operate as village savings and loan associations — member-managed, with collective rules the group sets itself. MIWA facilitates the model and provides training; the savings belong entirely to the members.