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Women Empowerment
How can we promote Gender balance?
Gender imbalance exists because of deep-rooted cultural, social, and economic systems that perpetuate inequality. Historically, societal norms and traditions have assigned rigid roles to men and women, often prioritizing men in leadership, education, and employment opportunities while relegating women to unpaid domestic work. Discriminatory laws, unequal access to resources, and gender-based violence further widen the gap. These disparities are compounded by systemic biases and the lack of policies that promote equal participation and representation in decision-making processes, resulting in ongoing inequality between genders in many areas of life.
The Ridvan Kindness Organization (RIKO) with Consultation with women has decided to create a space for women to thrive. A space that offers the nurturing environment for women to be able to release the community building powers to contribute to their personal and collective advancement.
This space focus on three ares
1. Capacity Building and Skills Training through entrepreneurship, financial literay that improve their livelihoods and contribute more effectively to their communities.
2. Fight against Gender-Based Violence
3. Access to Financial Resources by establishing microfinance programs that offers micro capital, facilitating access to savings and credit groups where women can pool resources and invest in income-generating activities.
4. Leadership Development by encouraging their participation in decision-making at all levels of the organization.
Enjwata Women Groups
Women groups in the Ridvan Kindness Organization (RIKO) are community-based initiatives that bring together women—especially from marginalized and indigenous communities—to empower them socially, economically, and politically. These groups serve as safe spaces where women can support one another, build leadership skills, access training, and engage in income-generating activities.
Key functions of RIKO’s women groups include:
- Capacity Building: Women receive training in entrepreneurship, leadership, gender rights, and advocacy to increase their confidence and ability to make decisions within their households and communities.
- Economic Empowerment: The groups often run small savings and loan schemes, vocational training, and income-generating projects to improve household incomes and financial independence.
- Social Support: The groups provide a network for emotional and practical support, helping women facing gender-based violence, discrimination, or other social challenges.
- Community Engagement: Women in these groups actively participate in community development efforts, awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy, especially on issues affecting women and children.
We are currently supporting five women groups under RIKO, each composed of 7 to 10 women. These groups are organized based on assessed capacities, such as skills, leadership potential, economic vulnerability, and readiness for group-based initiatives. The formation and management of these groups align with RIKO’s broader mission to promote gender equality, economic empowerment, and community-driven development in northern Tanzania, especially among indigenous Maasai women.
(Top-Level) Structure – “Up”
1. Strategic Grouping:
RIKO assesses women’s strengths, needs, and interests before forming groups. This ensures that members are compatible and can grow together at a similar pace. Each group receives tailored support from RIKO, including:
Business development training, leadership and Gender Rights Awareness.
Grassroots Activities and Impact – “Down”
1. Income Generation:
Women engage in practical, skill-based work including:
Making and selling traditional Maasai jewelry
2. Savings and Loans:
Some groups run small Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), helping members access small loans to expand their businesses or support household needs.
