Economic and social empowerment activities were intended as a means to strengthen the longer-term resilience of vulnerable populations, particularly women and adolescent girls. Specifically, the approach made use of an innovative model called EA$E (Economic and Social Empowerment) that gives women more access to financial stability and provides opportunities to both women and adolescent girls to create more equitable and safe gender dynamics within their households. The theory of change in this approach is that “if targeted women and adolescent girls are empowered economically to become self-reliant; then women and girls will be empowered to realise their rights and protect themselves from FGM/C and CEFM.”
In this regard, KAALO, with the financial support from Norway through NCA, supported a total of 500 women and girls at risk of violence and survivors who previously had no income and are now managing businesses and making financial decisions, decreasing their economic dependence and vulnerability to violence. They reported increased financial independence, improved household income, and reduced violence. The women’s feedback shows significant growth in savings and business initiatives. To date, they have accumulated savings of over USD 50,000 and established business enterprises. These women and girls not only improved their financial situation but also initiated critical dialogue around equitable household dynamics, resulting in reduced intimate partner violence and improved decision-making within their families. As a result, they stand up for their rights, participate in decision-making processes, and defend themselves against harmful practices like FGM and CEFM.
Women in the target locations faced serious economic and social challenges that limited their empowerment. Many women had no access to reliable financial services, making saving or investing difficult. This insecurity was aggravated by poverty and a lack of entrepreneurial skills, which led to dependence on male family members. Such dependency made them more vulnerable to intimate partner violence and other forms of GBV, as they had few means to escape abusive situations.
In Somalia, where socio-economic conditions are poor, traditional and religious norms restrict women’s roles outside the home and limit their participation in decision-making. Despite their growing economic involvement, women remain poorer than men due to the unequal distribution of household wealth. A 2024 National Economic Council of Somalia report highlights that social norms devalue women’s contributions, worsening gender inequality.
Recognizing these critical gaps, KAALO aimed to promote financial inclusion and gender equality through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) while offering comprehensive training in business and financial management. KAALO equipped women and adolescents with tools to protect themselves from GBV. KAALO sensitized communities, identified vulnerable women and girls, and organized them into groups.
Through the EA$E model, women were successfully trained, and more than 500 members were provided with essential training in savings, entrepreneurship, and financial management, among other topics. This intervention strengthened their economic resilience, enhanced their confidence and decision-making capacity, and contributed to creating safer and more equitable households and communities.
