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Avortement sécurisé au Bénin : Enabel et le gouvernement bâtissent un écosystème durable dans le Borgou
Reece-hermine ADANWENON | 24/10/2024
Le Bénin a fait un pas décisif dans la lutte contre la mortalité maternelle évitable avec l'amendement de la loi de 2003 sur la santé sexuelle et reproductive. Adoptée en octobre 2021, la loi n°2021-12 élargit l'accès à l'avortement sécurisé pour inclure les cas où la poursuite de la grossesse provoquerait une détresse significative à la femme ou à la fille.Dans le département du Borgou, où la mortalité maternelle atteint 397 décès pour 100 000 naissances vivantes, la mise en œuvre de cette loi reste un défi majeur. C'est dans ce cadre qu'une rencontre entre acteurs de la santé et le projet P@SRIS mis en œuvre par Enabel s'est tenue à Parakou du 1er au 3 octobre 2024. L'objectif de cette rencontre est de créer un écosystème durable soutenant l'offre et la demande de services d'avortement sécurisés.Au cours de cette rencontre, les défis locaux tels que le manque de communication sur les lois Santé Sexuelle et Reproductive (SSR), la stigmatisation, le manque de prestataires formés et l'accès limité aux services de santé ont été identifiés. Une feuille de route pour les quatre prochaines années a été élaborée, suivant une approche de recherche-action visant à réduire les avortements à risque et à renforcer l'engagement des parties prenantes.Ce modèle pourrait être reproduit à l'échelle nationale, renforçant les droits reproductifs des femmes et contribuant à l'objectif de réduction de la mortalité maternelle. Grâce à l'appui technique du Ministère de la Santé, d'Ipas et d'Enabel, le département du Borgou pourrait devenir un exemple de système de soins engagés, centré sur l'individu et garantissant l'accès aux services d'avortement sécurisé de qualité.
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Umwuga Award 2024 : Une vitrine pour l’excellence des métiers au Burundi!
Jonas Eric UWIZERA | 24/10/2024
Du 16 au 18 octobre 2024, le Centre de Formation Professionnelle de Nyakabiga, à Bujumbura, a accueilli la deuxième édition du concours national des métiers Umwuga Award. Cet événement a rassemblé 57 jeunes talents provenant de 14 provinces du Burundi, prêts à démontrer leur savoir-faire dans 9 filières : menuiserie, couture, soudage, mécanique automobile, TIC, service bar et restaurant, maçonnerie, électricité industrielle et carrelage. L'édition 2024 de Umwuga Award a montré que les métiers techniques ont un rôle fondamental dans la lutte contre le chômage au Burundi, en offrant aux jeunes la possibilité d'acquérir des compétences directement applicables sur le marché du travail. Cette deuxième édition s'est distinguée par la rigueur de ses épreuves, organisées sous la supervision d'un jury d'experts renforcé par la présence de Jean Claude Raskin, consultant en coaching mental à WorldSkills Belgium. L'un des moments forts de l'événement a été la cérémonie de remise des prix, qui a eu lieu le 18 octobre au Donatus Conference Center, en présence du Secrétaire Permanent du Ministère de l’Education Nationale chargé de l’Enseignement supérieur, du Chef de Coopération de l'Ambassade de Belgique, du Président de la Chambre Fédérale de Commerce et d'Industrie du Burundi, ainsi que des représentants des partenaires au développement invités. Inspiré par le modèle WorldSkills, le concours Umwuga Award offre aux jeunes Burundais de 16 à 25 ans une plateforme pour exprimer leur créativité et leur talent. Cette édition a mis en avant le potentiel incroyable des jeunes Burundais et leur capacité à relever les défis techniques de demain, agissant ainsi comme un moteur pour l'innovation et le développement socio-économique du pays. Un des résultats concrets de ce concours a été l'engagement d'entreprises à offrir des emplois et des stages rémunérés aux lauréats. Des sociétés, comme AMA Construction, qui a proposé 6 emplois pour les meilleurs lauréats en maçonnerie et électricité, et Zaco Style qui a offert des stages en couture, cashtel en électricité et informatique, etc. ont confirmé leur intérêt pour les compétences des participants, renforçant ainsi le lien entre formation et employabilité. Les premiers de chacune des 9 filières ont reçu une enveloppe de 3 millions de francs burundais, les seconds 2 millions et les troisièmes 1 million pour soutenir leur parcours professionnel.
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Capitalisation du projet REPO : contribuer à la résilience agro sylvo- pastorale à l’Ouest du Niger
Halissa HASSAN DAN AZOUMI | 23/10/2024
Le projet REPO (Résilience agro sylvo-pastorale, Ouest Niger), financé par l’Union européenne et mis en œuvre par Enabel au Niger a organisé le 22 octobre 2024, un atelier de restitution et d’échanges autour de 5 thématiques de capitalisation Ces thèmes de capitalisation mettent en lumière les innovations et les bonnes pratiques développées dans le cadre du projet : 1. Le « HIMO pastoral » qui explore l’implication des éleveurs dans la restauration des terres pastorales en zone agricole, à travers des approches à haute intensité de main-d'œuvre. 2. L’utilisation de l’imagerie aérienne par drone civil, permettant un suivi plus précis et un meilleur contrôle des actions de restauration des terres pastorales. 3. La mise en place de la Police Rurale, une initiative pour la préservation durable des ressources naturelles pastorales au Niger. 4. Le développement d’un système d’estimation de la biomasse en saison sèche, fondé sur des données satellitaires, afin de mieux gérer les ressources pastorales. 5. L’intégration de l’élevage dans les Champs Ecoles Agro Pastoraux (CEAP), facilitant une approche plus globale de la gestion agricole et pastorale. Les présentations ont suscité de nombreuses questions et ont ouvert la voie à des échanges constructifs et enrichissants entre les participants. La matinée a été particulièrement riche en enseignements, témoignant de la pertinence des initiatives mises en œuvre et de l’engagement des différents acteurs.
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Session de briefing pour les nouveaux collègues d'Enabel Mauritanie
Aminata KANE | 23/10/2024
Le 22 octobre, Enabel Mauritanie a organisé une session de briefing pour accueillir deux nouveaux membres de l'équipe : Yahya Kane, Chef de projet MIRECAM, et Djibril N'diaye, Acheteur public. Ce moment a permis aux nouveaux arrivants de mieux connaître notre organisation, son fonctionnement, ainsi que les différentes missions qui les attendent.Abidine Hamady, Acheteur public, a partagé son expertise sur les procédures de marchés, tandis que Rosine Moko Fotso, Contract Support Manager, a abordé les aspects contractuels. Guedie Kane, Conseillère stratégie, a également contribué à la session.Ces interventions ont offert un aperçu clair des orientations d'Enabel Mauritanie. Ce briefing a facilité l'intégration de Yahya et Djibril tout en leur donnant une vision précise des responsabilités liées à leurs nouveaux postes. Bienvenue parmi nous!
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Atelier de capitalisation du volet "Accès aux financements" du programme RIMFIL : Partage d’expériences et perspectives d’avenir
Aminata KANE | 21/10/2024
Du 15 au 17 octobre, l’hôtel Nouakchott, en plein cœur de la capitale mauritanienne, a accueilli l’atelier final de capitalisation du volet "Accès aux financements pour les producteurs agricoles et pastoraux" du programme RIMFIL, dédié à la "Promotion du développement des filières agricoles et pastorales durables". Organisé par Enabel, l’Agence belge de développement, et financé par l’Union européenne, cet événement s’est fixé pour objectif de partager les leçons apprises et de formuler des recommandations structurantes et pratiques pour l’avenir du secteur. Des résultats concrets et des défis partagés Les travaux ont débuté par une présentation des principales réalisations du programme RIMFIL, ainsi qu’un exposé détaillé sur les défis rencontrés tout au long de sa mise en œuvre. Il a été rappelé les tros axes mis en œuvre par Enabel sous la tutelle des Ministères de l’Agricultre et de l’Elevage et en partenariat avec des acteurs non gouvernementaux et socio-professionnels en l’occurrence l’appui conseil aux producteurs, la structuration professionnelle des filières et l’accés au financement pour les producteurs thème de l’atelier. Les participants ont pu apprécier les effets des initiatives menées sur ce volet par le programme RIMFIL s’appuyant sur les réseaux des Institutions de Microfinance Ibdaa et Djikké. A la faveur des présentations et des débats entre acteurs les points d’amélioration pour de futurs appuis ont pu être identifiés. L’accent a notamment été mis sur le mécanisme de subventions adossées aux crédits, et sur l’accompagnement non financier offert aux bénéficiaires pour garantir leur réussite. Des échanges approfondis et constructifs Des groupes de travail constitués entre les intervenants et les acteurs de ce volet microfinance et du secteur ont été constitués afin de permettre des échanges ciblés sur des thématiques clés, telles que l’efficacité des collaborations avec les institutions de microfinance et les meilleures pratiques en matière de soutien financier et non financier. Cette approche a permis aux participants d’approfondir leurs réflexions et de proposer des solutions concrètes aux problématiques identifiées. Vers de nouvelles recommandations pour un meilleur accès aux financements ruraux La dernière journée, marquée par des discussions animées, a permis aux acteurs présents – partenaires sectoriels, représentants d’ONG, et institutions de microfinance – de formuler des recommandations concrètes et réalistes pour renforcer l'accès au financement dans le secteur rural. Ces recommandations ont fait l’objet d’une synthèse, mettant en perspectives les bases pour des actions futures qui renforceront la résilience des filières agricoles et pastorales. Cet atelier aura permis de poser des jalons essentiels pour améliorer l’accès aux financements dans les zones rurales, une avancée clé pour le développement des filières agricoles et pastorales en Mauritanie.
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Valuing Teachers' Voices in Uganda: A Call for Inclusion and Recognition
Sharon IBENU | 21/10/2024
For years, teachers have been viewed as secondary stakeholders, often overlooked in discussions that directly impact their profession. This marginalization is evident in the disparities in their compensation compared to other professionals, despite their significant contributions to society. Teachers are frequently subjected to policies imposed without their input, leaving them to implement changes they neither understand nor agree with. As the primary implementers of educational policies, their insights and experiences are invaluable. By including teachers in the decision-making process, Uganda's education system could see substantial improvements, benefiting both educators and students. Teachers spend a significant amount of time with children, often more than the children's own parents. This positions them as vital stakeholders in the educational sector, whose voices should be heard and respected.By valuing and incorporating teachers' perspectives, Uganda can create a more effective and inclusive education system that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of its educators and students alike. Enabel Uganda's commitment to supporting teachers is a testament to the power of collaboration and the positive impact of valuing educators' voices.
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Enabel trains over 1000 teachers in active teaching methods in Uganda
Sharon IBENU | 21/10/2024
Picture a classroom where curiosity thrives, and every student's potential is tapped and fulfilled. This vision is becoming reality across Uganda, in the districts of Kasese, Kabarole, Kyegegwa to Busoga region, in the districts of Jinja & Kamuli, and West Nile in the district of Yumbe, Madi Okollo, Adjumani. The WeLearn-WeTeach project is sparking an educational revolution, enhancing capacity of over 1000 teachers who are inspiring young minds by adopting innovative techniques, and not just teach—but create pathways to a world of opportunities, ensuring that every adolescent, regardless of background, has an equal chance to education.Recognizing that well-trained teachers are essential for effective learning, Enabel conducted an assessment to identify areas where teachers needed support. The results highlighted a clear need for teachers to better understand and implement the competence-based curriculum, which focuses on practical learning and student engagement. To address these needs, Enabel launched a series of training sessions designed to support teachers develop their skills. These sessions focused on active teaching methods that encouraged practical learning. For instance, teachers learnt how to use project-based and problem-based learning techniques, as well as collaborative methods like brainstorming and group work. They were also being encouraged to continue using various resources, such as maps, charts, and multimedia tools, to make their lessons more engaging. For many teachers, this training has been a game-changer. Mr. Isaac Waiswa, a teacher at Balawoli Senior Secondary School, Kamuli district notes, “Before the trainings, I was a traditional teacher. I thought I was the master of knowledge and would walk to class and just talk to students and go away. But now with the trainings I have received, I am able to incorporate videos in my teachings and different Microsoft tools. The class sessions are now more interactive” Additionally, the initiative promotes the continuous professional development of teachers through self-paced online courses. In General Teaching Methods (GTM), 32 teachers have completed the course under WeLearn, while 31 teachers have participated in Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL). Furthermore, 232 teachers have been trained in Competence Based Assessment (CBA) under WeLearn. For Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) and Active Teaching and Learning (ATL), a total of 602 teachers have been trained under WeLearn, with 644 teachers participating in CBC training under WeTeach. Judith Achiro Kibwota, a teacher at St Mary’s College Madi-ope, Lamwo district reiterated that the classes are now livelier. “Before I could only go to class and teach and was worried about adapting to the new changes. I enrolled for the online courses, and I have been able facilitate students through videos and this brings students together to engage more during the lessons” Scheldeman Mitte, the Intervention Officer for Materials Development and Innovation at Enabel noted that the trainings seek to help teachers understand the competence-based curriculum better and clarify challenging concepts related to project work and assessments. “Coping with the new curriculum was difficult for me. But when Enabel started training us and brought in the online courses, I have been able to use videos for teaching my students. The class is now very interactive and engaging. Students attitude is gradually changing and their interest in learning has also gone higher” concludes Mr. Ariaka Sam, teacher from Odravu senior secondary school, Yumbe district.
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Mozambican Children and Youth Leading the Way in Climate Action
Velsoma CUMBANA | 18/10/2024
On August 22-23, 2024, Maputo became the stage of a movement for change during the Second official UN-endorsed national Local Conference of Children and Youth on Climate Change in Mozambique (LCOY-Mozambique). LCOYs are hosted every year in over 120 countries prior to the UN Conference of Parties (COP) and serve as a space to amplify youth climate action ahead of international conferences. In Mozambique, the Youth Climate Action Platform (YCAC-MOZ), serves as the official organiser and representative of the LCOY and is supported by a network of partners, including Enabel – the Belgian development agency. This year, the conference brought together over 150 young people from across Mozambique. A pivotal moment of the event was the ratification of the Youth Climate Declaration, a document symbolising the leadership and commitment of Mozambique's youth in addressing climate change. Building the Future Today The ratification of the Declaration was a significant affirmation of the readiness of Mozambican youth to take a leading role in climate action. This document captures the hopes and concerns of a generation acutely aware of the environmental challenges we face. It reflects their resolve to be at the forefront of developing practical and sustainable solutions. Over the course of the two-day conference, participants engaged in deep discussions on crucial topics such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Carbon Markets, Human Rights, Energy Transition, Water, Health, and Biodiversity. Mozambique is in the process of elaborating its 3rd NDC, which represents a roadmap for the future, guiding investments in clean energy, climate adaptation, and sustainable practices, which can directly impact youth employment and education opportunities. These discussions were closely tied to the lived experiences of the youth and their communities. On a Carbon Markets focused panel discussion featuring Xana Maunze, Climate Finance Officer at Enabel and a youth climate advocate, through interactive panels, they not only expanded their understanding of these issues but also identified actionable strategies that can be implemented locally. A Roadmap for Change This Declaration, ratified at the conference’s conclusion, serves as a manifesto for the urgent needs and priorities of the present time. It provides a clear roadmap for the commitments and actions these young leaders plan to demand for, promote and pursue. The Declaration calls for concrete steps, including: Organizing inclusive public consultations and workshops to incorporate youth perspectives into Mozambique’s NDCs. Ensuring the broad dissemination of climate policies across all societal levels, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities.Establishing national and local actions for climate mitigation and adaptation, with clear emission reduction targets and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. The document will be shared with both public and private entities to ensure that the perspectives of youth are integrated into policy-making and climate action initiatives. Youth as Agents of Change This initiative marks the beginning of a continuous process of engagement, learning, and action. It underscores that Mozambican youth are not merely recipients of development projects but are active leaders in the implementation of climate solutions. Their determination and creativity in addressing climate challenges are evident, and Enabel is privileged to support them as they bring their ideas and projects to life. This is the power of youth: creating the future today. Together, we can ensure that this future is sustainable, inclusive, and just for all.
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Maroc : 419 enfants issus des communes de la province de Taroudant touchées par le séisme ont bénéficié de colonies de vacances.
Nazha BOUJDADI | 16/10/2024
En partenariat avec l’association CEFA, via le projet TIWIZI, et la Direction régionale du département de la jeunesse-Souss-Massa, des colonies de vacances ont été organisées au profit des enfants issus des communes sinistrées de Taroudant. Ces colonies ont eu lieu à Tiznit (plage d’Aglou) et à Agadir, du 27 juillet au 30 août 2024. Pour tou.tes les collaborateur.ices de l’Action Post-Séisme, la période estivale a été chargée par l’organisation de cette activité au profit des enfants âgés de 7 à 14 ans originaires de 19 collectivités territoriales touchées par le séisme. La colonie de vacances était, pour les enfants, un moyen d’échapper aux traumatismes difficiles du séisme du 8 septembre 2023. Le programme et les activités des colonies de vacances ont été adaptés aux besoins spécifiques des enfants et pour répondre aux objectifs escomptés : - Le soutien psychosocial : offrir un environnement sécurisé et enrichissant aux enfants pour les aider à surmonter les traumatismes post-séisme. - Le développement personnel : encourager la confiance en soi, la socialisation et le développement des compétences personnelles des enfants. - Et la promotion des droits de l’enfant : sensibiliser les enfants et leurs familles aux droits de l’enfant et à l’accès aux services. Des animateur.ices et, surtout, des spécialistes en psychologie, ont été mobilisés pour fournir un soutien psychosocial et aider les enfants à exprimer leurs émotions. Sur 419 enfants, 119 étaient des filles. Ensemble, ils/elles ont vécu une expérience enrichissante dans laquelle ils ont été encouragés à participer à diverses activités, allant des sorties éducatives et sportives aux ateliers créatifs, en passant par des jeux à la plage. Les bénéfices de la participation des enfants des zones sinistrées, tous du monde rural, à ces dans colonies de vacances, vont bien au-delà de période d’été. Le fait de vivre des expériences positives renforcera leur résilience et leur confiance en eux. Grâce aux souvenirs heureux et aux amitiés nouées durant les colonies, ils/elles ont reçu un soutien moral qui les aidera à mieux se préparer pour la rentrée scolaire. Soutenir et développer la participation des enfants des zones sinistrées aux colonies de vacances et, d’une manière générale, les enfants du milieu rural, est une initiative précieuse qui mérite d’être appuyée et dupliquée. La colonie de vacances offre aux enfants une chance de se reconstruire, de retrouver le sourire et de croire en un avenir meilleur. En leur offrant un environnement sécurisé et bienveillant, les colonies de vacances jouent un rôle crucial dans le processus de guérison et de la résilience. Dans un environnement propice à l’amitié et à l’acquisition de connaissances, les moments passés entre enfants resteront à jamais dans leur mémoire, et nous espérons que cette expérience les motivera pour l’année scolaire 2024-2025. Pour rappel, l’action post-séisme s’insère dans le cadre du projet DEPOMI. Elle s’articule autour de trois axes : · La gouvernance locale et la cohésion sociale sont renforcées via l’accompagnement des acteurs locaux pour l’adaptation des services et la prise en charge des personnes déplacées internes touchées par le séisme ainsi que les communautés hôtes ; · Des actions d’appui à la réinsertion socio-économique et d’accès aux droits et aux droits services personnes touchées par le séisme et des personnes en mobilité sont mises en œuvre ; · La diaspora et ses acteurs sont mobilisés autour de projets de développement dans les communes touchées par le séisme dans la région de Souss-Massa. DEPOMI est financé par l’Union européenne dans le cadre du Fonds Fiduciaire d’Urgence (FFU) et mis en œuvre par Enabel.
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The Work Readiness Programme is shaping Jimmy's career in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 16/10/2024
Jimmy, a mechanical engineering graduate from Makerere University, has been working at Pearl Dairies for three months. He learned about the job through a friend, a former classmate who had participated in the Work Readiness Programme (WRP). The friend shared a WhatsApp link, and seeing his success with the WRP motivated Jimmy to apply. "I was looking for a graduate trainee program to gain practical skills, and this opportunity came at the right time," he says. At Pearl Dairy, Jimmy works in the mechanical department. "My main tasks are maintenance, repair, and servicing of machines," he explains. He also does welding and fabrication—skills he didn’t fully acquire during his university studies. "The only welding we did at university was during recess, and we weren’t given real guidance. So, we didn’t learn much." When Jimmy started at Pearl Dairies, it was his first time working with stainless steel and using TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding. Although it was new to him, he’s now improving with the help of a specialist.Jimmy's confidence has grown significantly since joining Pearl Dairies. At first, he was hesitant to ask questions or speak up, but the support from his department has made him more comfortable. He also had to adjust to moving from Kampala to Mbarara for the job. "I have a friend who turned down the opportunity to move because he found it difficult to adapt. But I was determined to take this chance to improve my skills, so I overcame all the challenges to move here," Jimmy shares. Coming from a different region, Jimmy initially found both the work and environment challenging. "I used to be scared to admit that I was a graduate because I felt incompetent, but now my confidence is improving," he says. Since starting, he has learned how to operate welding machines and is now trusted with measuring and cutting pieces for fabrication.Jimmy strongly recommends the Work Readiness Programme to other graduates. "At university, we don’t get enough practical skills. When we graduate, we realize we’re not skilled enough to get a job, and we waste time feeling like we’re still young. But reality hits when you start attending interviews and don’t get offers. With the WRP, you don’t have to worry about lacking skills," he explains. Jimmy is particularly excited about learning TIG welding, saying, "With this TIG technology, I’m going to be marketable because very few people know it. That’s why I’m putting in a lot of effort to learn it." He hopes to be retained at Pearl Dairies to continue building his skills but feels confident that even if he isn’t, the hands-on experience will help him secure another job. "The Work Readiness Programme is a stepping stone for graduates. I can now proudly say I’m a step ahead of many of my former classmates," Jimmy says.
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How Agaba turned education into hands-on experience at Pearl Dairy Limited in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 16/10/2024
Agaba Atumanya, 26, graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from Kyambogo University. He learned about the Work Readiness Programme (WRP) through a friend who shared a link via WhatsApp. Since manufacturing was one of the focus areas of the programme, and it aligned with his field of study, he decided to apply. Though it seemed too good to be true, his positive attitude pushed him to give it a shot, and he was accepted to work at Pearl Dairy Farm Limited in Mbarara. Agaba was assigned to the UHT (Ultra Heat Treatment) department, where milk is processed and packaged. While he was familiar with designing and producing finished products, he suggested to his supervisor that he could be more effective as a machine operator, learning the process from the ground up. After some training, he was put on shift to operate the first machine in the cold plant, which packs milk. His job is to ensure the machine runs smoothly by feeding in packaging materials and making sure the final product meets quality standards.Agaba has found that his education is now directly relevant to his work. He can easily link the theory he learned in class to the practical tasks he's doing, which has boosted his confidence. He has also improved his problem-solving skills, as he regularly has to fix issues with the machines. His teamwork, communication, and time management skills have grown since he must be on time every day to start production. Agaba has even come up with ideas to improve processes, which his colleagues have adopted on several occasions. One of his key contributions has been reducing waste during production by minimizing rejects. He prepares the machines carefully before production and ensures maintenance is done properly, which has helped reduce bad products that can't be sold. Agaba faced some stigma from older co-workers, who felt threatened by a new graduate. "When you're fresh from school, some people worry you'll take their place or get promoted before them," he says. But over time, he focused on his work and eventually built good relationships with his colleagues.Agaba believes in following opportunities wherever they lead. "I spent seven years in Kampala, but that doesn’t mean my future is there. That's why I took this job in Mbarara. It’s preparing me for the future, and when I return to Kampala, I’ll be more competitive because of what I've learned here." He highly recommends the WRP to recent graduates, saying it gave him a direct path from school to employment in his field. "The programme is about getting ready for work, but for me, it's also about optimization and effectiveness. I’ve learned to work within limits, add value to the company, and grow as an employee." Agaba feels lucky to have been part of the programme and hopes others will take advantage of similar opportunities.
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From arduous journeys to accessible care; Enabel's impact on Rwanda's healthcare services
Denise NSANGA | 16/10/2024
The absence of a health centre had long posed a significant challenge to the residents of the Shagasha Sector, where pregnant women and the sick had to endure arduous journeys to distant health facilities, often resulting in delayed or missed medical care. This harsh reality changed when Enabel, the Belgian development agency, partnered with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre and Rusizi District to improve healthcare access for this underserved community.Godberthe Icyimpaye, a 30-year-old resident of Shagasha village, recalls the difficult past: "Before having this health centre nearby, we were struggling to access healthcare services. We had to travel to Gihundwe or to Kadashya, and each trip costed us money for tickets, and when it rained, the journey became even more difficult."The lack of a health facility in the area meant dangerous journeys for expectant mothers, risking both their lives and those of their unborn children. "A pregnant woman could give birth on the way, or she would endure four hours of long stretches on foot while weak, risking the lives of both mother and baby," laments Icyimpaye.Recognising this pressing need, Enabel intervened by supporting the construction and Equipment of the Shagasha Health Centre. This initiative aimed to enhance early detection of pregnancy-related risks and complications, ultimately increasing healthcare access for the population of Shagasha—the only sector in Rusizi District without a health centreat the time.The impact of this Belgium-Rwanda bilateral programme 2019-2024 in the health sector has been profound. Icyimpaye shared, "Things are looking up now. There haven't been any maternal deaths during childbirth in our community. Everyday health needs are met without exhausting journeys. We receive timely care, and visiting loved ones hospitalised here is now hassle-free." The partnership has also resulted in the provision of an ambulance to a health centre that did not have one, and enhancement of adolescent sexual and reproductive health services and initiatives to combat drug addiction among youth, alongside expanding family planning uptake.Rusizi District is pleased with its partnership with Enabel, which has led to significant achievements in the health sector. These accomplishments include but not limited to the renovation and construction of maternity wards and operating rooms in hospitals, as well as the refurbishment and equipping of health posts and Isange One Stop Centres for GBV case management. Additionally, the provision of ultrasound machines to all health centres has reduced unnecessary transfers of pregnant women to hospitals.
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Bibiana’s Growth in Human Resources at Pearl Dairies in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 16/10/2024
Bibiana, a 25-year-old Human Resource professional at Pearl Dairies Farm Limited, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, majoring in Human Resource Management, from Makerere University. Sponsored by the MasterCard Foundation during her studies, she first encountered the Work Readiness Programme (WRP) while at university. After participating in a WRP under MasterCard, officials from the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) introduced her to the Enabel WRP. She registered through the PSFU portal and, after successful interviews, secured a position at Pearl Dairies. Bibiana found the physical skills training immensely beneficial and is grateful for the exposure to work life, allowing her to practice what she studied. Her role includes recruitment, attendance tracking, and supervising the canteen staff, among other duties. She has gained confidence through participating in interview panels and organizing workplace events, such as celebrating staff birthdays. Supervising a predominantly male workforce has sharpened her problem-solving skills, especially in conflict resolution, a challenge she initially found daunting but has since mastered. Her most notable achievement at Pearl Dairies is the transformation of the staff canteen, where she introduced order and improved hygiene standards. Bibiana acknowledges the challenges recent graduates, particularly women, face, including the threat of exploitation, and she highly recommends the WRP for all recent graduates in Uganda.
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Turning challenges into opportunities as an Agronomist in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 16/10/2024
Meet Kato Tumusime, a 25-year-old agronomist with a passion for agriculture. Working with Ankole Coffee Producers’ Cooperative Union (ACPCU) in Kabwohe, he spends his days supporting coffee farmers in Mbarara as part of the Rwampara Growers Cooperative. But Kato’s journey to this point wasn’t easy. After graduating in March 2023 with a degree in Agri-Business Management and Community Development, Kato faced a tough job market. “Looking for a job had become a job itself,” he recalls. Employers often preferred diploma holders over graduates, making it hard for Kato to get his foot in the door. But things changed when a friend shared a link on WhatsApp for the Work Readiness Programme (WRP), implemented by Enabel and PSFU. “Once I landed on the link, I applied to join the WRP,” Kato says. Despite the long application process, he was determined and kept checking his email daily, hoping for good news. His perseverance paid off when he was offered a role at ACPCU. In his role, Kato inspects coffee farms, registers farmers using online tools, and guides them on maintaining organic control to produce high-quality coffee. He also educates farmers about proper post-harvest handling and ensures that they comply with fair trade standards. Kato faces challenges, from convincing farmers of ACPCU’s credibility to navigating tough terrains. “Some of the trainees gave up, but I am not going to give up because I have a goal,” he says. Despite the hurdles, Kato’s confidence has soared since joining the WRP. “I have to up my game because some farmers are even more knowledgeable than me,” he admits. Learning from farmers, supervisors, and regular trainings keeps him motivated. With the support he’s received, Kato has even started saving money. He used his salary to launch a poultry farm with 40 layers and bought a motorcycle, which brings in daily income as a boda boda. Kato is grateful to Enabel and PSFU for providing safety gear, which makes his work safer and easier, especially in remote areas. “I recommend this programme to other graduates because it is the best,” he says. “Even if you are just shortlisted for a job and not offered, it still gives graduates hope that they can get a job one day.”
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Optimisation des points d’eau en zone pastorale au Niger grâce à des techniques géophysiques innovantes
Halissa HASSAN DAN AZOUMI | 15/10/2024
Dans le cadre du projet REPO (Résilience agro-sylvo-pastorale Ouest-Niger), une étude hydrogéophysique a permis d’optimiser l’implantation des puits et forages pour l’alimentation en eau des communautés pastorales. En utilisant des technologies de pointe basées sur la résonance magnétique et l'électromagnétisme, les chercheurs ont pu évaluer la profondeur et la productivité des nappes phréatiques avant les travaux. Résultat : des ouvrages plus efficaces, réduisant les coûts tout en garantissant une eau de qualité et renouvelable. Ce projet, réalisé en partenariat avec Enabel, l'IRD, l'Université Abdou Moumouni et le Ministère de l'Hydraulique, et financé par l'Union Européenne, marque une avancée significative pour la gestion durable des ressources en eau dans les zones pastorales. Ces techniques innovantes pourraient être déployées à plus grande échelle, offrant un modèle à suivre pour renforcer la résilience des communautés rurales au Niger.
