The Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme has returned to Ichwa community in Makurdi for a second six-month phase implemented by OWACDO in partnership with Women for Women International.
The new phase builds on an earlier cycle that reached 300 women with structured learning and empowerment opportunities. Pre-selection, baseline assessment, participant intake and numeracy screening have already been completed, creating a clear foundation for the learning journey ahead.
Building on the achievements of the first phase
During the first phase, participants developed practical knowledge intended to strengthen their confidence, decision-making and economic independence. The programme culminated in a graduation ceremony that celebrated women who had completed the learning process and demonstrated the value of sustained, locally delivered support.
The decision to begin another phase reflects confidence in the programme model and in OWACDO’s ability to work closely with women in the community. It also creates a fresh opportunity to support marginalised and displaced women as they build skills that can improve their households and livelihoods.
Four connected pillars of women’s empowerment
The programme brings together four areas that reinforce one another:
- Numeracy skills help women read, calculate and manage everyday financial transactions.
- Social empowerment develops confidence, rights awareness and participation in family and community decisions.
- Business skills provide practical knowledge for starting, managing and strengthening income-generating activities.
- Vocational training supports the development of livelihood skills that can increase self-reliance.
By combining these areas, the programme recognises that economic progress is stronger when women also have the confidence, knowledge and social support to make informed choices.
Learning manuals turn training into a practical resource
OWACDO formally distributed comprehensive learning manuals to participants as the sessions commenced. The materials provide a step-by-step guide across numeracy, social empowerment, business and vocational training.
The manuals allow participants to follow lessons during class, revisit key ideas afterwards and retain a resource they can use beyond the programme period. For facilitators, the materials also support consistency and make it easier to connect one module with the next.
From baseline information to measurable progress
The baseline assessment and intake process give the project an evidence base for understanding participants’ starting points. Numeracy screening helps facilitators identify different learning needs and adapt support appropriately.
As the second phase progresses, these early records will also help OWACDO and its partner assess change in skills, confidence and economic capacity. The aim is not simply to complete sessions, but to support progress that women can apply in their businesses, homes and communities.
More information about the wider global programme is available from Women for Women International.
Stronger women strengthen families and communities
OWACDO believes that women equipped with knowledge, practical skills and opportunities can become stronger agents of change. Greater confidence and economic independence can improve a woman’s ability to plan, respond to shocks and participate in decisions that affect her life.
The second phase in Ichwa is therefore both a learning programme and a long-term investment in women’s resilience. Every completed module, practical exercise and manual distributed represents another step towards stronger women, stronger families, stronger communities and stronger nations.