MADISON, Wis.—The Global Women’s Leadership Network (GWLN) reported its 2023 Empowerment Grant initiatives supported over 760 individuals in Kenya and Mongolia, increased Kenyan farmers’ incomes by 20% and provided 112 Mongolian credit union leaders with training on sustainable finance, driving economic empowerment and sustainability in rural communities.
The projects, led by Enkhchimeg Nergui, partnership specialist, Mongolian National Confederation of Credit Unions, and Violet Ndungu, CEO, Muki SACCO (Kenya), demonstrate the transformative potential of targeted financial support and capacity building, GWLN said.
The grants, valued at $10,000 each, funded innovative projects designed to advance social impact, uplift underserved groups and expand financial inclusion. Implemented from September 2023 to July 2024, the projects supported sustainable development goals and created new opportunities for women and youth.
Expanding Financial And Ecological Horizons In Mongolia
In Mongolia, the grant enabled the establishment of a comprehensive support network across 14 credit unions, directly benefiting members in rural communities, particularly those in yak and sheep herder groups. Key achievements of the project, according to GWLN, include:
- Capacity building in sustainable finance. Provided more than 100 leaders from 31 credit unions with advanced training on sustainable finance practices and environmentally conscious business operations, conducted in collaboration with Mongolia’s Financial Regulatory Commission.
- Enhanced market access. Developed an online marketplace to promote rural products, including handmade goods and eco-friendly cashmere. The platform showcased over 60 items, attracted more than 2,500 visitors and provided rural producers with access to wider markets.
- Advancing green financing. Translated and distributed foundational documents and guidelines on sustainable credit practices, preparing credit unions to integrate green financing principles into their operations.
Transforming Dairy Farming In Kenya
The Kenyan project, led by Muki SACCO, focused on commercializing dairy farming operations to boost production and income for smallholder farmers. Notable outcomes, according to GWLN, include:
- Farmer training and group formation. More than 700 farmers participated in training sessions on modern dairy practices, including feed production, veterinary care and effective farm management. The formation of 73 farmer groups enhanced collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Introduction of new financial products. A specialized loan product was developed to address specific farmer needs, such as purchasing water tanks and chaff cutters. This innovation has increased access to essential resources, improving operational efficiency.
- Improved dairy production and incomes. Expanded milk production by 25% and increased farmer incomes by 20%, leading to enhanced financial security and community prosperity.
- Creating dignified work for women. Training and support enabled women farmers to transition from subsistence farming to commercial operations, creating stable income streams and fostering economic independence. These efforts contributed to a stronger sense of agency and economic participation among women in the community.
A Legacy Of Empowerment
“Since their inception in 2014, GWLN Empowerment Grants have funded impactful projects worldwide, focusing on financial inclusion, gender equality and leadership development. The 2023 initiatives reflect GWLN’s dedication to fostering sustainable solutions through cooperative efforts and community engagement,” GWLN said.
“These grants are a testament to the remarkable achievements that can be realized when female leaders are empowered to address the unique challenges in their communities,” said GWLN Director Eleni Giakoumopoulos. “The success of these projects underlines the transformative power of cooperation and innovation.”