SOCODEVI - Canadian Cooperation Society for International Development

Purpose

This project will support women's and girls' economic empowerment in rural districts along Mozambique's North-South Gaza/Maputo corridor. It will ultimately improve the economic empowerment of women and girl members of agricultural associations within the National Farmers' Union (União Nacional de Camponeses - UNAC). PAEF will adopt a multi-faceted approach that highlights women's and girls' constraints with regard to climate change-friendly income-generating activities -- constraints that perpetuate their lack of power and control over economic resources and their vulnerability to sexual and reproductive health risks. The project will partner with recognized Mozambican organizations. Agro-food production will be stimulated through experimental agroforestry and field training focused on climate smart agriculture. The project will accompany 30 UNAC-affiliated agricultural associations and will create and manage a cooperative venture that will provide products and services that respond to women's and girls' needs and promote high-value-added activities. Finally, PAEF will strengthen the practices of the Department of the Environment and Rural Development (MITADER), the Ministry of Women and Social Action (MFAS) and civil society organizations involved in Maputo and Gaza Provinces, so that they focus on women and girls' economic empowerment and reducing their vulnerability.