In one of the world’s largest swamps, livelihoods must be constantly adapted to the realities on the ground. Through an EU-funded project, FCA are supporting fishermen to increase their catches and incomes.
Text: Björn Udd Photos: Antti Yrjönen
IN A CANOE that looks very much like a hollowed-out tree trunk, a gangly man is kneeling in the bow and paddling. He moves smoothly along the shore, handling his long net. Occasionally, and with a small smile, he picks up a fish, pulling it out of the mesh and putting it behind him in the canoe. The fish is the family’s income and food.
Kuol Puoth Thiew says he has been fishing since he was a small child. He grew up in Old Fangak, a town in northern South Sudan, located in the incredible swamp landscape formed by the White Nile. The al-Sudd Swamp is one of the largest in the world and has often been affected by extreme weather conditions. During the rainy season, the whole area is flooded and during the dry season the temperature can rise up to 45 degrees.
Mr Thiew moved to the nearby town of New Fangak with his two wives and nine children so that his children could go to school. Thiew himself finished school after the fifth grade, but wants his children to have an opportunity to get an education.
“I wanted my children to have a better future than mine. That’s why we moved here,” says the soft-spoken Thiew.
Khuol Phuot Thiew’s dream is to buy his own canoe. For now, he borrows or rents his canoe from fellow fishermen.
The income he receives from fishing is largely used to pay his children’s school fees. The nine children are aged between 3 and 25, and the two oldest have already moved away to the capital Juba to study at university – that’s more than a week’s boat journey away.
“My children going to school gives me hope for the future. That’s why I work hard to support them,” says Thiew.
THIEW LEAVES the riverbank at sunrise. Then he goes out with the canoe to scour the nets. In addition to fish, the waters are home to crocodiles, poisonous snakes and hippos. But Thiew still feels safe in his canoe.
“I’ve never been bitten. If a snake looks like it wants to attack, I just turn the canoe round and paddle away.”
If Thiew gets going early in the morning, he can catch 30-50 fish, usually perch-related Nile tilapia and mudfish, a particularly fast-growing fish that can weigh up to 7 kilos after just one month alive.
The fishing waters around New Fangak contain good numbers of fish.
“I sell the fish for 500-1000 South Sudanese pounds. So on a good day I can earn 30,000-50,000 (around €20-30), which goes towards the family’s daily expenses and the children’s school fees,” says Thiew.
Fish that is not purchased is eaten by the family.
“We all like fish, it has a lot of protein.”
The family also has a small garden and some cattle he bought with the income from fishing. Previously, the family had more cattle, but they died during heavy flooding. The recurrent floods and drought also make it difficult to grow crops, but for now the family still gets some food from the garden.
Fish provides both a good income and food for the family. It is a good source of protein in an area where many have lost their livestock.
IF THERE is fish left over, Thiew dries it to sell later. He learned this at a course organised by FCA’s European Union Humanitarian Aid-funded project last year. During the course, the fishermen learnt the best ways of laying and placing nets. The fishermen also received new, durable nets.
“The nets are very good. They have been very useful.”
Thiew would like to increase his catch, but at the moment it is difficult. He doesn’t own his own canoe, but borrows one from a fellow fisherman. Most of the time he can borrow the canoe for free, but sometimes – when his colleague is short of money – he pays a small rent. But his dream is to buy his own canoe.
“Then I could go deeper into the swamp, where there are more fish. I could make 2-3 day trips and increase my catch and income,” says Thiew.
Aid workers at the core of crises – where to find the courage to help?
FCA staff in Ukraine, South Sudan and Syria face seemingly insurmountable challenges every day.
Text: Ruth Owen
WORKING IN CRISIS CONDITIONS means frequent threats to your safety and a constant challenge to your mental well-being. In this story, three FCA Country Directors share the unique challenges they face in their work amid conflict and humanitarian crises. They also reveal what inspires and motivates them to continue their work despite the challenges.
Seme Nelson, Country Director of Church Aid South Sudan, is motivated to see the change that his work brings. “Every time we witness a change, for example among children going to school, I get the feeling that our work is contributing to social change, improving people’s lives and opportunities to claim their rights.” Photo by Ulriikka Myöhänen / FCA
“Every time I come to work, I know that what I do has a direct impact on other people”
Seme Nelson studied peace, conflict and development studies at universities on three different continents. However, he decided to return to his native South Sudan, where he now heads the FCA’s Country Office.
“The challenges in South Sudan are manifold. The country is unstable and its economy is fragile. Many live in poverty, exacerbated by conflict, refugees and war in neighbouring Sudan.
South Sudan was basically founded on a background and legacy of violent conflict and internal civil wars. It’s continued to affect the entire stability of the state. We have also faced threats to our security at FCA. Our Pibor office was ransacked by local people in 2016 amongst widespread attacks on NGOs. And in 2022 our Fangak office destroyed fighting between armed groups, but our staff remain, as do I.
In 2020, I considered remaining in Japan, where I did my master’s degree. But I considered whether what I do would make a significant difference to people’s lives or not. When I remain here in South Sudan, every time I come to work, there is a very direct connection between what I do and how it impacts people.
What has continued to push our staff to continue to work despite the difficulties and challenges is the impact that our programme makes on the people. Every time you see these beautiful stories of change. From young people, mothers, kids who are able to go to school. You feel like our work is contributing to transforming societies, improving people’s access to livelihoods and helping citizens demand their rights.
When the Sudanese conflict broke out in 2022, a lot of Sudanese fled to South Sudan along with former South Sudanese refugees who decided to return to their country. At present, I think only five per cent of these refugees from Sudan are living in refugee camps or settlements inside South Sudan. Probably 80 per cent of them are housed by South Sudanese – people who have decided to open their homes to welcome Sudanese refugees to share the little that they have. The media always wants to document stories of suffering, of desperations, but for me I think we should highlight positive stories like these more.
Yes, my country is founded on a story of conflict and desperation – the process of state building has almost started from zero. But if we look at the infrastructural transformation of the country from 2005 when the second civil war ended, there has been a tremendous growth process. The country has a city called Juba that we’re proud of today, that never even existed before! Regardless the situation of desperation in this country, the generosity, strength and courage of people is something worth acknowledging.
“It is important to distinguish between political problems and solidarity with people who are suffering”
Mazen Khzouz’s home is in Jordan, but his work requires him to spend long periods away from his family. As FCA Country Director for Syria, he believes it is important for him to be close to the communities he works with.
Mazen Khzouz, FCA Country Director for Syria. Photo by Mohammed al-Masrab
“I’m not the kind of person who’s satisfied with only doing the basic in my life. I need to do more. I need to be closer to people who I serve.
Syria is suffering the effects of a long conflict, economic collapse and a devastating earthquake. The country is under severe sanctions, which are contributing to the impoverishment of the population and increasing suffering. Sanctions have led to a lack of access to all basic necessities and a lack of money. Prices have skyrocketed, purchasing power has been eroded and unemployment is very high. An estimated 90% of Syrians now live below the poverty line. The cost of living has more than doubled since 2023, as measured by the Minimum Expenditure Basket.
The security situation in Syria has improved in relative terms compared to the most difficult years of the conflict. Humanitarian actors are now in a better position to reach vulnerable groups. However, the security situation remains volatile and new outbreaks of violence are possible. Sporadic attacks, inter-group clashes and multiple checkpoints between population centres can also slow down progress in the areas where the FCA’s work is taking place. Journeys to schools and communities can take as long as three or four hours.
Social tensions increase during disasters. It gets frustrating when some people get help and others don’t, even though many need it. Tensions are also a risk for our employees. To mitigate them and ensure staff safety, we build strong relationships with community leaders and local actors.
When we understand that people are struggling to meet their basic needs – to feed and clothe their children – it is easy to understand their strong reactions. We at FCA Syria wish we could do more and reach even more of those in need.
All our employees are Syrian. Staff members have lost loved ones in war, earthquake and even cholera. It is common for one of our staff to help at least two or three other relatives or households with their income.
My family back in Jordan are wondering how much I can endure from the situation, but the proximity to the country helps a lot. I explain to my family we have a strong evacuation plan and I give them assurance that we are safe.
The media constructs a certain image of Syria, which influences the perceptions and opinions about the people and that’s a very big mistake. We need to differentiate between people who are suffering and whatever problems there may be in the political domain.
The Syrian people do not deserve to be mistreated. They are human beings. They have children. They deserve to live a decent life as much as you and I do.”
Patricia Maruschak, who grew up in Canada’s Ukrainian diaspora, returned to her roots in Ukraine when FCA was looking for a Country Director for its office in the war-torn country. Photo by Antti Yrjönen / KUA
“I miss my family, but I want to see Ukraine prosper and be free”
Patricia Maruschak is the granddaughter of Ukrainian immigrants to Canada and grew up in the Ukrainian diaspora. She lived and worked in Ukraine from 2006 to 2010, before returning in 2022 to head up the FCA Ukraine office.
Ukraine has been at full since its neighbour Russia invaded in 2022. Frequent air alarms across the country, when there is a threat of attack, lead to constant disruptions to daily life. This impacts greatly on children’s education and their psychological wellbeing, as well of that of their teachers.
Recently in Chernihiv, one of the schools where we have done repairs was damaged because there was a bombing very close to the school. The alarm went off, everyone went downstairs, and were standing for the daily moment of silence for the fallen. During that moment there were three huge explosions close by. Everyone had to immediately lie on the ground, the children were very scared. It’s the teachers’ job to keep them calm in a situation that’s uncertain for everyone. In the meantime, people from the street were also trying to get into the shelter.
All over the country, when an air alarm goes off, everyone has to go into the shelter. Teachers have to try and continue with learning where sometimes there’s no separation for classes. Imagine trying to continue a lesson with 7 or 8 year olds when there are now another 100 children in the room!
We train teachers in ‘psychological first aid’ to help children in the moment. Then we also train them in ongoing mental health support for kids, who have had trauma experiences, or have family members who are away fighting or have returned severely injured and have their own traumas. And then we also help teachers take care of themselves with coping strategies.
Many of our staff never worked in NGOs previously, coming mainly from the business community, but now they’re proud to be helping fellow Ukrainains.
Our procurement officer was an IDP (Internally Displaced Person) at the beginning of the war, because her community was occupied by Russian troops for a while. Meanwhile, our head psychologist has been displaced twice, firstly from Donetsk due to Russian occupation in 2014 and then from the south-east of the country when the fullscale war began in 2021. It’s not just a job for our people, it’s also their life.
I miss my family a lot. But there are clear needs here and the ability to make an impact in Ukraine is very high. We work with capable and experienced Ukrainian education experts. It’s a pleasure and a good challenge to work alongside them and personally, I want to see Ukraine succeed and be free and capable of making its own choices.”
Seme, Mazen and Patricia will speak at the World Village Festival in Helsinki on 25 May 2024.
‘Talent Has No Borders’: Na’amal and FCA launch report on connecting refugees to digital livelihoods
Finn Church Aid (FCA) and social enterprise, Na’amal, launched a pioneering joint report titled ‘Talent has No Borders: Creating Connections For Refugees and other Displaced People to Decent Digital Livelihoods’.
THE STUDY, co-authored by Lorraine Charles, Executive Director at Na’amal, Dr. Shuting Xia, Julieta Guzmán, and Sonia Catinean, delves into the current landscape of digital livelihoods for refugees and displaced individuals. It explores the challenges they face and identifies key strategies and initiatives to facilitate their access to digital work opportunities, with the ultimate goal of empowering refugees and promoting their economic integration.
The study revealed that while a diverse array of stakeholders are actively contributing to a thriving ecosystem to engage refugees in digital employment, significant challenges persist. These include inconsistent job opportunities, infrastructure and connectivity issues, and regulatory uncertainties surrounding refugees’ legal right to work remotely. The report underscores the importance of collaboration among programmes and organisations to maximize impact and develop comprehensive employment approaches tailored to the unique needs of refugee digital workers.
Employing a robust scoping approach, the study includes key informant interviews with various stakeholders, including organizations providing support, companies employing refugees remotely, and refugee workers themselves. These interviews offered valuable insights from firsthand experiences, enabling a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The report underscores the active roles played by various stakeholders in advancing digital livelihoods for displaced individuals, including international organizations, national entities, social enterprises, NGOs, and the private sector. Within the expansive digital livelihood landscape, these stakeholders assume diverse roles, collaborating and relying on each other to cultivate a flourishing digital employment ecosystem. Despite challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, internet connectivity, digital skills gaps, and limited access to work opportunities, stakeholders have launched initiatives to bolster refugee support.
Karim Bin-Humam from UNHCR talked with digital workers, who are also refugees at a webinar to launch the report.
Report launch webinar saw refugees tell their stories of digital work
An online webinar saw refugee and digital experts come together to discuss the report, lessons learned and the way forward. Sonia Catinean, Programme Manager at Na’amal shed light on the obstacles refugees encounter when seeking digital employment, such as the need for proper infrastructure, including stable internet connection and personal laptops. Catinean also stressed the importance of valid documentation for refugees to receive payments and emphasized the crucial role of soft skills training in preparing them for remote work.
A highlight of the webinar was the panel discussion moderated by Karim Bin-Humam, Digital Livelihoods Consultant at UNHCR Innovation, where refugees shared their experiences accessing digital livelihoods. The panelists included three talented individuals who have participated in Na’amal’s digital skilling programs: Susan Achiech, a software developer; Ukech Daniel Uboa, who has earned income through the microwork platform Appen; and Esperance Mukiza, a healthcare professional seeking to enter digital employment.
Abdi Hamisi Ambari, Tech and Comms Lead at Na’amal, introduced the newly formed Na’amal Agency. This innovative initiative aims to effectively bridge the gap between displaced talent and remote work opportunities while providing support to further develop their technical and professional skills.
Et ole hyväksynyt markkinoinnin evästeitä nähdäksesi videon.
Watch the ‘Talent has No Borders’ webinar that launched the report on 17 April 2024
Digital livelihoods can empower refugees
Organisations like Na’amal and FCA, which invest in digital livelihoods are advocating daily for government cooperation. They engage with stakeholders across sectors to devise solutions. Initiatives such as portable internet connectivity devices, upskilling programs, and mentorship opportunities address specific needs.
Career development support, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship training also empower refugees to access digital work opportunities. And e-commerce platforms significantly promote e-business entrepreneurship among displaced populations by providing invaluable resources, training, and access to pertinent materials.
“Digital livelihoods offer a powerful way to economically empower refugees, but significant barriers remain,” said Lorraine Charles, Executive Director of Na’amal. “This report provides an in-depth look at the current landscape and identifies key practices to help more refugees build decent careers in the digital economy. We hope the insights spur action among humanitarian organizations, NGOs, social enterprises and the private sector to expand digital livelihood opportunities for refugees everywhere.”
As global displacement hits record levels – digital livelihoods can help
Digital livelihoods offer a promising solution to the economic hardships faced by refugees but entail addressing various challenges. Inconsistent availability of digital employment opportunities often disappoints refugees seeking online work. Infrastructure, connectivity, and access to devices are critical prerequisites requiring attention. Regulatory uncertainties and fragmented upskilling programs further complicate matters. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring that digital livelihoods empower refugees sustainably.
As the global displacement crisis reaches unprecedented levels, the potential of digital livelihoods in empowering refugees and promoting their economic integration is clearer than ever. The ‘Talent has No Borders’ report provides crucial recommendations for stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, develop refugee-tailored support programs, and engage employers to create more opportunities. By fostering cooperation, providing comprehensive support, and engaging with key stakeholders, FCA and Na’amal are committed to working towards a more inclusive digital economy that empowers displaced people to find decent work and shape brighter futures.
Start-up money helps young entrepreneurs in Somaliland
Hibak markets the clothes she designs on social media, Sakariya’s café invites customers for coffee and books. Seed money also helps Sainab, who lost her business in a devastating fire. This is how FCA is supporting livelihoods in Hargeisa, Somaliland.
Text and photos: Björn Udd
More than 60 per cent of young people are unemployed in the northern part of Somalia, which is known as Somaliland. The country, which has suffered from decades of conflict, lacks sufficient jobs, which is why even educated young people are often left with no options. Youth unemployment is particularly urgent in the region, as approximately 70 per cent of the inhabitants of Somaliland are children and young people.
A workplace provides an important livelihood, and not only for the employee. Since so many people are without income, a single employed person in Somaliland can support up to twenty family members.
Making a living signicantly improves people’s future prospects, so FCA is focusing on supporting young people who want to become entrepreneurs in the city of Hargeisa. Having your own income also eases the position of women and the disabled, because with a regular salary they have better opportunities to plan their own lives. Those who dream of entrepreneurship, however, often lack the necessary funds and accounting skills to start a business. FCA bridges the gap by offering free training and start-up grants.
But young people are not the only group that needs support in Hargeisa. In April 2022, the large market of Waheen burned to the ground, and with it, the savings, warehouses, and business premises of an estimated 2,000–5,000 merchants turned into ashes. The ravages of the fire and global inflation completely crippled the city’s economy. While there were no deaths, damages from the fire amounted to around $2 billion US Dollars, or up to 60% of Somaliland’s GDP.
After the fire, FCA gave twenty female entrepreneurs €500 cash relief, which has enabled them to restart their operations.
In this story, we meet three small entrepreneurs from Hargeisa: two of them are young people at the beginning of their working careers, and the third represents a more experienced generation of merchants.
Hibak Hiis Mohamoud is a 23-year-old tailor who markets her clothes on social media.
“When I started the tailoring course, the others had already been in school for two months. There was no more room on the school bus. I walked to school for an hour and a half every day. Finally, the teachers realised that I was serious and gave me a place to study,” says Hibak Hiis Mohamoud.
Excuduing self-confidence and activity as she recounts the stages of her life, Hibak explains that her father did not want anything to do with his family. That decision caused difficulties in many ways, but also to study, because her mother had a low income and school fees were high. Once Hibak called her father and asked him to pay the school fees, but he refused.
“So I then sold my only possessions, the earrings, at the market. With the money, I bought school books and fruit for my mother,” Hibak says.
Hibak Hiis Mohamoud used to walk every day for an hour and a half to school to study to be a tailor. “Finally, the teachers realised I was serious and gave me a place to study,” she says.
First, Hibak studied to be a midwife, but when no work could be found, she decided to switch to a tailoring course organised by FCA. Hibak followed fashionable women on social media, whose style she began to imitate in her own collection. However, acquiring new customers was difficult.
“I wore the clothes I made and went to cafes so that others could see what kind of clothes I make. I was asked where I bought my clothes. That’s how I found customers”, Hibak laughs.
Today, Hibak makes not only clothes but also bags. She markets his products on social media and there are enough buyers from Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu. Hibak sends clothes by post and receives payments from customers using a mobile application. Currently, she earns about $60 US Dollars a month.
“At first, my mother didn’t give me permission to go to the course because I already had training as a midwife. Now she sees how I bring home money, and encourages me to continue,” says Hibak.
“All my life I have been dependent on others, but now I have become an independent woman.”
Even the relationship with her father has changed with education.
“When my father heard that I had become a seamstress, he became my customer. I want my father to see that it was a mistake to abandon us.”
Sainab Abdi Farah is an experienced market seller who revived her shop after a devastating fire.
“The fire started on Friday, my day off. I was at home and when I heard about the fire, I rushed to the scene. The whole store was on fire. When the fire burned out, I had lost everything.”
Sainab Abdi Farah’s first business burned down in a devastating fire in 2022.
Sainab sadly tell us about the day that changed everything in her hometown of Hargeisa. On the first day of April in 2022, the market was destroyed across an area of almost ten hectares. In one day, people’s savings, livelihoods and the city’s own economic prospects all disappeared.
“It was terrible. I don’t get support from anyone, and my husband has been sick for a long time,” says Sainab, whose entire family of 11 depend on her income.
Sainab’s husband has back problems and needs surgery. According to Sainab, the treatment costs 18,000 dollars, and since healthcare in Somaliland does not work well, the surgery should be done abroad.
“Right now, all I have left is hope. I want to expand my business and make enough money to support my family.”
After the fire, Sainab was allowed to sell her goods on the steps of a shop set up in a former warehouse. She kept her merchandise in a small box. However, the business was so small that it was impossible to live on the income.
“I received $500 from FCA and a week-long merchant training so that I could get my business up and running again. Without support, it would have been impossible for me to expand my business.”
Now, instead of a small box, Sainab has a whole cart of merchandise, such as clothes, scarves and more. She still has permission to sell on the steps of the shop.
“We help each other. My products go well with the store’s products. I sell women’s and children’s clothes, and they sell hair and skin care products,” says Sainab.
But business is still difficult. A large part of the marketplace is still under construction, and customers have not found their way back.
“In a good month, I make about $70. Before the fire, I earned up to $200,” says Sainab.
“All of us here hope that things will go back to normal.”
Sakariya Ali Isack founded a cafe with his friend with the start-up money, where customers can buy snacks as well as specialty coffees.
20-year-old entrepreneur Sakariya Ali Isack has been blind since the age of 3.
“We are establishing a fast food cafe. We sell specialty coffees, teas, fried chicken and french fries,” enthuses Sakariya Ali Isack.
The café is still being renovated. Building materials lying around the business premises. The rush to get it finishes is intense, because in a few days ‘Books and Coffee’ will open its doors to the public. Shelves will offer books that customers can read while drinking coffee.
Sakariya and three friends used $4,000 start-up money, provided by FCA, for rent, decorating, purchasing coffee and deep-frying machines and food supplies. The café receives books that have already been read once as donations.
“I take care of administrative tasks, cleaning and also some of the catering. I can serve most of the products, but, for example, telling soft drinks apart from each other is tricky,” says Sakariya, who is blind.
He tells us that becoming an entrepreneur has brought a lot of advantages with it even before the café opens. According to Sakariya, people with disabilities are discriminated against in the local culture. He has even been attacked by strangers.
“In high school, even the teachers asked why I was there. I had to convince myself that I’m smart, I ended up teaching Braille to the teachers. However, the bullying never completely stopped.”
In addition to the start-up money, Sakariya has attended training organized by FCA, which teaches, for example, accounting, data processing and market research.
“These skills will be very useful. I hope to soon earn enough to support my family and siblings.”
Sakariya also dreams of starting her own family. He is engaged and will be married later this year.
“My fiancé is also blind. I don’t know if it will cause problems in the future, but we understand each other well, and I think that’s the most important thing.”
The inauguration of the new FCA liaison office to the AU was attended by AU delegates, government officials, and civil society organisations, as well as experts from FCA and the Peacemakers Network.
Finn Church Aid and The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers gathered with African Union delegates to inaugurate new liaison office in Addis Ababa.
A THREE-DAY EVENT, held in the capital of Ethiopia, marked a significant step toward realising shared objectives between FCA and the African Union (AU), a continental body that comprises 55 African states.
The inauguration of the new office was attended by diplomats, international organisation representatives, AU delegates, government officials, and civil society organisations. In line with FCA’s priority areas, of education, livelihoods and peace, speakers from the AU outlined the union’s commitment to inclusive education and its agenda for peace and security.
The liaison office will be a focal point for FCA’s collaboration, coordination, advocacy and partnership with the African Union, focusing on meaningful participation of African civil society actors; especially youth, women and religious and traditional actors.
A shared vision
Ambassador Sinikka Antila, Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union celebrated the establishment of FCA’s AU liaison office, underscoring its role in peacebuilding amid numerous conflicts worldwide.
Ambassador Sinikka Antila (third from left) praised FCA work in peacebuilding, education and livelihoods.
She also highlighted FCA’s extensive experience in emergency education contexts, especially during 2024, which the AU has designated as the ‘year of education’.
“In Finland, like in Africa, education is a top priority. The most precious resource for any country is its human resources. Therefore, education, by leaving no one behind, is the priority investment for development.”
Ambassador Antila also lauded FCA’s work in fostering livelihoods, especially in a continent with a young population where job creation and entrepreneurship are of utmost importance.
“FCA’s efforts in livelihood development, including promoting entrepreneurship and start-ups, have the potential to play a pivotal role in empowering Africa’s young population and fostering economic growth. This aligns with the increasing importance of job creation, especially in innovative and creative industries,” she said.
2024 a year of education
Sophia Ashipala, Head of the Education Division at the African Union, conveyed her enthusiasm for the occasion in her address and commended FCA for its pivotal role in bringing the event to fruition.
Sophia Ashipala of the AU emphasised the importance of education, science, technology and innovation.
“Education, science, technology, and innovation are the cornerstones of progress and development for any nation or continent. As we embark on this journey together, it is crucial to recognise the immense potential that lies within Africa’s youth and the transformative power of education,” noted Ashipala.
Africa, like many other regions, faces profound challenges in its education systems, spanning from early childhood education to tertiary and higher education levels. These systemic issues have widened the gap towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education, a challenge mirrored in the Continental Education Strategy for Africa.
“Having education as the theme of the year 2024 is a significant step that is expected to shine a continental spotlight on building resilient systems for increased access to inclusive, quality, and relevant education in Africa,” Ashipala stated. This theme year will involve concrete and impactful activities and initiatives at various levels.
Focus on peacebuilding
The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers came together with FCA to organise the event with network members from across the continent participating and briefing their work on conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Africa.
Members of the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers posed for a photo during the AU office launch event in Ethiopia.
FCA hosts the Secretariat of the Network, a global movement of over 100 members (primarily religious and traditional actors, women, and young people) working across 40 countries worldwide to achieve peace through mediation and dialogue.
John Bongei, FCA Kenya Country Director (L) meets with Ambassador Frederic Gateretse-Ngoga (R)
Network members had the opportunity to meet with Ambassador Frederic Gateretse-Ngoga, the Senior Advisor on International Partnerships, the AU border program and regional security mechanisms in the office of the Commissioner for Political Affairs and Peace and Security.
He pointed out the vital role of religious leaders in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and post-conflict resolution, their respected status within communities making them key figures in sustaining peace.
“There is need for Africa to have its own strategy for the world,” he said, adding that “there can be no successful peace process without the involvement of religious leaders and traditional mediation methods,” he said.
The Network’s Regional Programme Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Gina Dias, shared that “84% of the world’s population has a religious affiliation, and in recent years, roughly two-thirds of all conflicts have or have had a religious dimension. Religious leaders and faith-based organisations play an important mediating role in many conflict situations and yet are often not fully acknowledged, and their potential contribution remains underutilised.”
African expertise
FCA operates in five African countries and, as an organisation, recognises the critical importance of establishing deeper connections with the AU. This commitment comes at a time when Africa is resolutely working towards realising the aspirations of ‘Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.‘
All of FCA’s Country Directors for African countries were present at the inauguration from Central African Republic, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan and Uganda.
Mahdi Abdile, FCA’s Executive Representative to the AU, emphasised the strategic importance of the inauguration, “the reason why this event is important is because the AU is a strategic partner for us as FCA, and we want to enhance our collaboration and strengthen our partnership, understand their priorities, and identify areas where we can work together.”
Cash transfers in Myanmar are changing lives for the better
The confluence of the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic downturn, political instability, and escalated civil conflicts since February 2021 has cast a shadow of financial hardship over countless lives in Myanmar.
A STAGGERING 67% of the country’s population, including the once-thriving Chin State, grapples with the harsh grip of poverty.
While maintaining a focus on education work in Myanmar, FCA also supports livelihood opportunities and humanitarian assistance with interventions such as cash transfers to beneficiaries.
Three people in Chin State, whose lives have crossed paths with FCA’s work, recently shared their stories.
Van Cung’s Journey of Hope
Van Cung is a 56-year-old resident of Thantalang Town, surrounded by teal-hued mountains and sandwiched by Vuichip and Marau peaks. The two rivers serve as the lifeblood of its inhabitants. In times gone by, it was hailed as one of the most prosperous towns in Chin state.
A devoted teacher with 24 years of experience, Van Cung poured his heart into educating the youth of Chin State in Thantalang. His dedication was unwavering even during long hours of teaching. On a modest salary of about 300,000 MMK (approximately 115 Euro), he supported his family of five, finding joy in meaningful work and the love of his kin.
Van Cung relies on his motorbike for his livelihood.
However, fate took an unforeseen twist. The coup of February 2021 unleashed waves of unrest and protests, causing the education system to collapse nationwide, including in Chin state. The schools closed, leaving him unemployed. Adding to the turmoil, a devastating incident unfolded on November 19, 2021.
During a military campaign, 164 houses in his town were burned down. The destruction escalated, resulting in the loss of 900 houses and 19 religious structures to the fire. Van’s home was one of these —looted, burned, and reduced to ashes. This tragedy left his family with only an aging motorbike. Even now his voice quivers as he expresses his sorrow,
“My life has been shattered beyond imagination. I never fathomed such profound loss, even in my darkest dreams.”
In search of safety, he traveled with his family and aging bike to Zephai village, situated 44 miles away near the Indian border. The host community welcomed them with temporary shelter and food, yet the village was overwhelmed with families seeking refuge, resulting in overcrowding and limited resources. Van Cung turned to farming on available vacant lands, but the yield hardly alleviated his family’s hunger.
FCA provided 150,000 MMK (approximately 57.55 Euro) in humanitarian cash assistance to support his family. This aid was transformative. With this assistance, Van Cung embarked on a two-day journey on foot to Hnaring sub-town to buy spare parts to repair his motorbike. With the restored bike, he devised a plan to sell petrol. In nearby villages, he began selling fuel, earning a daily income of 20,000 MMK—a lifeline for his family.
Van Cung’s impact extends beyond his household. He now extends a helping hand to his community by ferrying patients on his motorbike to the medical center, navigating the winding roads of the Chin Hills.
“I am deeply thankful to FCA for their invaluable support, which has been a lifeline for individuals like me in Chin State. My hope is for their compassionate efforts to continue reaching the Chin Hills, touching more lives in need.”
Iang Ku’s Path to Self-Sufficiency
In a quiet corner of Chin State’s Haka Town resides Ms. Iang Ku, a resilient 30-year-old woman sharing her life with her 90-year-old father. Nestled on a small highland peak, Haka Town rises over 6,000 feet above the earth, compact yet proudly serving as the capital of the entire Chin State.
She and her father once owned a shop, selling cherished Chin traditional dresses, bringing in a steady income of about 20,000 MMK per day. But life’s tranquility was shattered by the echoes of a turbulent coup, rewriting their narrative in an instant.
Amidst the upheaval, a powerful explosion rocked their home, leaving them with their lives but taking away their possessions and livelihood. To take refuge, they fled to Sialam Village situated 54 miles away. For three days, they traveled on foot, enduring hunger and uncertainty, surviving on foraged fruits and vegetables along the route.
Iang Ku was able to support her father through her handicraft skills.
Despite the community’s generous hospitality, aid was limited due to their responsibility for a significant number of internally displaced people. Iang Ku experienced profound disappointment and a sense of hopelessness regarding their future survival, especially given her father’s chronic illness. With a heavy heart, she lamented, “I feel as though I could perish alongside my father.”
Like Van Cung, she also received humanitarian aid from Finn Church Aid, amounting to 60,000 MMK (approximately 115 Euro). She invested the entire sum into crafting traditional weaving products, which hold a high market value. With this assistance, she acquired the necessary equipment for traditional weaving production.
She started earning 8,000 MMK within a few days by selling her textiles. Her monthly income gradually ranged between 5,000 to 20,000 MMK. As her earnings grew, she could afford more materials for weaving. She now earns more than enough money to meet her family’s needs and generously assists those in need within her community.
Actively engaged in church activities, she finds herself counting the blessings of her transformed life. “With determination and assistance, I’ve woven a new life, now able to offer hope and help to those in need,” she shares.
Naw Bik’s Tale of Transformation
Naw Bik, a 47-year-old resident of Thantlang Town, was employed as a lower division clerk at the Ministry of Home Affairs. His monthly income of 280,000 MMK (107.5 Euro) provided for his family of four. However, when political turmoil erupted on February 1, 2021, he was compelled to leave his job, causing financial strain that cast his family into a state of food insecurity.
In October 2021, amidst the chaos in Thantlang Town, he and his family, like many others, sought refuge near the India border. They embarked on a grueling 41-mile journey on foot, traversing rugged terrain over two days, carrying what little belongings they could. The path was challenging, marked by steep inclines and treacherous footpaths.
Naw Bik received 120,000 MMK in cash assistance from FCA/MCC.
Upon reaching Tlangpi village, his family’s spirits were lifted by the warm welcome of fellow villagers. Despite the uncomfortable living conditions, they found solace among other internally displaced families.
In response, FCA provided 120,000 MMK to address the family’s livelihood crisis. This assistance ignited Naw Bik’s determination. He invested in a grass trimming tool and secured work at an Elephant Foot Yam and Strawberry farm, earning 10,000 MMK per day and a monthly income of 240,000 MMK. This newfound stability eased his family’s daily needs.
Reflecting on his journey, Naw Bik expressed profound gratitude for the unexpected support that reinvigorated his family’s means of survival. The generosity of strangers through the project inspired him to lend a hand to others grappling with conflicts and crises. He stressed the ongoing importance of humanitarian aid in Chin State, where many silently endure for survival.
30 Somali women and girls are training in web and mobile development thanks to partnership between FCA and iRise innovation hub.
MAIDA MOHAMED AHMED is a bright and ambitious woman from Somalia who has always had a passion for finance and technology. She applied for a six month web and mobile development course at Somalia’s first innovation hub, iRise.
The course, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Finland, is designed to empower girls and young women in an underrepresented field. The six-month course utilises design thinking skills to unlock the girls’ potential, ultimately empowering them to pursue a career in tech and improve their employment opportunities.
Today Maida is working as a web developer and is proud to be paving the way for other young women like herself to succeed in the tech industry.
Maida is a student at a web development training course in Mogadishu, Somalia. FCA partners with iRise innovation hub thanks to MFA Finland funding.
This project is part of FCA’s thematic approach to connect learning with earning in their livelihood projects. The initiative is highly significant, particularly in Somalia, where women face numerous hurdles in accessing education and employment opportunities.
Somalia is well poised to develop its digital industries – it is the seventh cheapest place in the world for high-speed internet. By providing women with the skills and expertise to pursue a tech career, this project hopes to reduce the gender gap in the tech industry and improve the quality of living for Somali women.
Maida (L) and her fellow students at the iRise hub web development training course in Mogadishu, Somalia.
The first batch of 15 girls have already completed the programme, while the other 15 expect to finish their studies soon.
As the first batch of graduates enters the workforce with their newly acquired skills, we hope to see significant changes in the industry in the gender ratio in Somalia. This program empowers girls to take on more challenging roles, disrupt stereotypes and create a more gender-inclusive workforce.
Text: Fatima Abshir Photos courtesy of Osama Nur Hussien for iRise
Vocational training unlocks the potential of refugees
In Uganda’s Rwamwanja refugee settlement, thousands of refugees, including a significant number of youth, face immense challenges. Locked out of many employment opportunities, they struggle to find ways to generate income.
FINN CHURCH AID launched their Business Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) programme in response to the need for change. It’s had a profound impact on the lives of the young people living in the settlement.
Two individuals living in Rwamwanja, located in Kamwenge district, Western Uganda, shared with us how their lives have been positively impacted by the programme. The UN Refugee Agency and the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs jointly support the initiative.
From shattered dreams to creative success
Gaston Chirimwami, a Congolese refugee living in Rwamwanja, had long harbored aspirations to become a musician. His goal was dashed, however, when he was forced to flee his country and seek safety in Uganda. His luck changed when he enrolled in FCA’s Creative Industries programme at their training centre.
There, he discovered his passion for video production and learned skills such as camera operating and photo and video editing. Gaston’s newfound abilities not only boosted his confidence but also provided him with a source of income through photography.
“I believe I can pursue both music and video editing like successful musicians like Tekno,” he told us.
Gaston Chirimwami shooting a video in Rwamwanja refugee settlement. Gaston completed FCA training in camera operation and video and photo editing.
Hairdressing helps support an entire family
Majengo Sadick, a resilient young adult who has the responsibility of caring for his six siblings, stumbled upon FCA’s vocational training program, and found it lifechanging. After completing a hair dressing course at the centre, Sadick started a mobile salon in Rwamwanja refugee settlement (see main picture).
Sadick’s newfound abilities in hairdressing opened doors to lucrative job opportunities while also igniting a passion he never knew he had.
Today, as a professional cosmetician, he owns a salon and supports his siblings’ education. “I’m glad that FCA provided me with skills and a professional certificate without any cost as compared to the expense I would spend in my home country, Congo,’’he says.
Majengo Sadick braiding a client’s hair at her house. Majengo completed an FCA vocational training course in hairdressing and now runs his own salon in Rwamwanja refugee settlement in Uganda.
Vocational training brings transformative change
Beyond these individual success stories, FCA’s vocational training program has made a tangible impact on the Rwamwanja community. The programme’s focus on trades such as tailoring, cosmetics, and agriculture has resulted in the establishment of numerous salons and tailoring firms owned by FCA BTVET graduates.
Parents in the community have witnessed the transformative changes brought about by vocational education. Now youth, who were once passed over, play a crucial role in rebuilding their lives and addressing unemployment challenges. Many graduates have even ventured beyond Kamwenge district, competing for job opportunities in urban centres across the country.
The hope for a better future is being restored, one skill at a time, thanks to FCA’s vocational programme.
Text and Images by Shema Bienvenu: Communications Intern at FCA Uganda
Shema completed secondary school with assistance from FCA and is now studying Journalism and Communication at university. We are honoured that he chose FCA for his internship!
FCA and GIZ – green resilience in Nepal, youth training in Kenya.
FCA AND GIZ are working together through the Green Resilient Agricultural Productive Ecosystems (GRAPE) programme, which aims to strengthen sustainable agricultural ecosystems in the Sudurpashchim and Karnali provinces of Nepal.
As part of the project, FCA operates Climate Field Schools, where farmers from the most vulnerable and marginalised communities can learn and practice proven trends and technologies in Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA). Most farmers working with the project are women. In addition, we work with communities to raise awareness on CRA through advocacy and street dramas, focusing on women and gender transformative approaches.
Et ole hyväksynyt markkinoinnin evästeitä nähdäksesi videon.
Nepali farmers told us about the effects of climate change on their crops. Working with German development agency, GIZ, FCA is engaging whole communities on climate resilience through the GRAPE project.
FCA supports communication about CRA through production of radio shows and infographics as well as providing training to journalists covering climate issues. Select journalists graduating from FCA training then received media fellowships to support writing and broadcasting on CRA.
The Women’s Academy for Leadership during a visit to facilitate learning and knowledge-sharing among the members
The project includes 53 civil society organisations in Nepal who cooperative on CRA in a Community of Practice. This is a collaborative space for networking, peer learning and upscaling of CRA models. One initiative, the Women’s Academy for Leadership, aims to address the lack of female representation in the agriculture sector.
In the next iteration of the project, activities will focus on gender transformative approaches, addressing the specific needs of women in agriculture, and the disproportionate effect of the climate crisis on women plus aspects of intersectionality.
The GRAPE programme is jointly financed by the European Union (EU), the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Climate change threatens the sustainability of whole food systems in Nepal with women and girls at particular risk of losing out on economic independence.
Key Facts
21 Groups formed and 568 individuals reached through Climate Field Schools.
53 Civil Society Organisations work with FCA Nepal to regularly share best practices in climate adaptation and sustainable agriculture.
64 female leaders from 38 organisations joined FCA’s Women’s Academy for Leadership.
21 journalists on FCA’s media fellowship have published or broadcasted 119 articles or programmes on CRA .
FCA and GIZ
FCA has worked with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in Nepal since 2023, focusing on sustainable climate adaptation and supporting green local economic development.
FCA and GIZ also work together in Kenya and on a global level with other partners, leveraging expertise in modern teaching methodologies and using evidence-based studies to expanding refugee inclusion in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Technical and vocational education in Kenya
IN KENYA, FCA, GIZ and the TAMK University of Applied Sciences in Tampere are collaborating on a project to foster collaborative partnerships between Finnish educational institutions and Kenyan actors working in the area of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
The project aims to leverage Finnish expertise in modern teaching methodologies, individualised learning and competency-based education to elevate the quality and effectiveness of TVET in Kenya.
Improved experiences in vocational education will lead to improved learning, as well as enhacing employability among Kenyan youth. It’s hoped that the project will eventually facilitate a sustainable model of quality technical and vocational education that can be replicated aross various contexts.
Both FCA and GIZ also work as part of a wider global steering committee, with UNHCR and ILO, dedicated to expanding refugee inclusion in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
FCA has long supported TVET training courses, like this hairdressing course in Rwamwanja refugee settlement in Uganda.
Working with local partners and international experts, FCA and GIZ are leveraging this experience in Kenya.
World Refugee Day 2023 – supporting Somalia’s internally displaced people
World Refugee Day is an opportunity to recognise and support the millions of people across the globe who have had to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, persecution, among other reasons. FCA also supports internally displaced people in places like Somalia.
Zaynab, 55, lives in the DurDur camp for internally displaced people in Burao, Somaliland. The longstanding drought in East Africa resulted in her livestock dying. Without resources to support her family of six children, she was forced to come to the camp.
FCA Somalia has been working tirelessly to assist households like Zaynab’s, affected by the longstanding drought in Somalia. From October 2022 to February 2023, the FCA team offered multipurpose unconditional cash transfers (MPCT) to help with urgent household requirements.
Cash lends flexibility to households
The cash project has proven essential in giving households the flexibility they need to deal with the impacts of the drought disaster, which have led to large-scale and long-lasting population shifts.
In Baidoa, Somalia, Hawa Noor a 35 year old mother of 5, arrived at the internally displaced people’s (IDP) camp from Dinsoor. She fled with her children after life became unbearable due to drought and violence in the region. She made the difficult decision to leave her husband to look after the small number of their goats that still survived.
Hawa sits with her niece at her vegetable stall in an IDP camp in Baidoa. She set up the stall with cash from FCA. PHOTO: FCA
“I was traumatised as life was difficult due to conflict and drought. On top of that, a memory I will never forget is my losing my sister, the mother of this young child (pointing to the 4-year-old girl sitting next to her). I’m her mother now,” she adds sadly.
Arriving at the camp, she had nothing to sustain her children’s needs. She depended on a neighbour’s aid and casual work, which was hard to come by. Getting proper shelter for the children was much more challenging than she had thought before leaving her home.
Building a business
Hawa was one of the beneficiaries supported by FCA’s cash payment of $80 per month for six months. In the first installment, she built a house for her children; in the second, she started a vegetable and groceries kiosk near the camp. Over the next months she continued contributing money to the small business each month while utilising the remaining cash for the children’s needs. She bought food, clean water and milk powder.
She also paid for her children’s school fees, plus educational materials.
FCA’s programme has transferred cash payouts via mobile phone transfers to targeted households in both regions of Baidoa and Burao. The initiative has focused on the most vulnerable individuals affected by the recent drought.
In all, 1100 households comprising 913 women and girls and 187 men and boys in 21 IDP camps have received a lifesaving cash distribution of $80 per home over three months.
As the programme comes to an end, many families like Hawa’s now have a small income-generating activity to sustain their daily needs until conditions become better.
New skills lead to sustainable livelihoods
In Baidoa, a project funded by the ACT Alliance, provides training for 40 women, who are also internal refugees. They learn handicrafts, like henna painting, as well as skills and basic numeracy and literacy to support running the business.
Women laugh while learning handicraft skills at the Bay Women InstituteWomen practice their henna skills at the training centre.
After the two month long training, carried out with our partners at the Bay Women Institute in Baidoa, the new entrepreneurs can offer their trade at the local market, bringing in extra income for their households.
The skills were chosen because they were simple yet marketable skills that the women could use within the camp to quickly generate income.
Due to their newly gained skills, the students also reported a boost in their self-esteem and confidence. The project highlights FCA’s commitment to support vulnerable communities through capacity building and empowerment initiatives.
