In rural parts of Kwale County, women are often the backbone of their families and communities — yet they face disproportionate barriers when it comes to safety, opportunity, and voice. At Pamoja Community Based Organization (PACBO), we believe that empowering women is not just an intervention — it’s a foundation for lasting change.
Through our women’s empowerment programs, we are supporting hundreds of women to overcome gender-based violence, build financial independence, access health and rights education, and take leadership roles in their communities.
Building Economic Independence
One of our key interventions is small enterprise training and startup support for women in rural areas. In 2024, we launched MamaMsingi, a skills-based program in Kinondo that trains women to produce eco-friendly soap and sanitary products using locally available materials.
Today, more than 70 women have started micro-enterprises from home — generating income to support their children, pay school fees, and reduce dependence on abusive or controlling partners.
“Before I joined the group, I had no source of income and no confidence. Now, I run my own soap business and teach others too,” says Halima, a MamaMsingi participant.
Supporting Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
We also provide safe spaces, psychosocial support, and referral services for women experiencing Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and other forms of abuse. Community forums are held in villages like Msambweni, Ukunda, and Lunga Lunga, where trained facilitators lead discussions on:
- Women’s rights and legal protections
- SRHR (Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights)
- Early warning signs and safety planning
- Accessing support services locally
We work closely with paralegals, healthcare providers, and local chiefs to ensure women get the help they need — confidentially and without fear.
Women as Agents of Change
Beyond support, we’re training women to lead. Through women’s leadership circles and civic engagement training, participants gain the skills to speak in public forums, represent their communities in ward meetings, and mobilize others to advocate for services and resources.
“When women are given the space and support to lead, the whole community becomes stronger,” says Margaret N., a facilitator from Msambweni.
In 2025 alone, five of our trained women leaders were elected to serve in local development committees.
Our Impact
So far, our women’s programs have:
- Trained over 200 women in sustainable income generation
- Reached more than 800 women with SRHR and GBV education
- Created 6 active women’s support groups across Kwale
- Helped launch 4 women-led community projects in food production, hygiene, and clean energy
What’s Next?
We are expanding our reach to more villages, especially in remote areas where services are limited and gender-based violence is underreported.
With increased support, we aim to:
- Launch a mobile SRHR clinic for women and girls
- Provide startup capital to 100 more women
- Train 50 more women leaders by 2026
How You Can Support
Donate to help us reach more women with tools, knowledge, and safety.
Partner with us if you’re an organization working in gender equality or women’s health.
Volunteer your skills in training, counseling, or mentorship.
When we invest in women, we invest in the future.
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