Remarkable progress was made across multiple community empowerment initiatives led by the Kandaakiat Organization for Women Empowerment and Development (KOWED). Through consistent monitoring, evaluation, and capacity-building efforts, the organization continued to strengthen women’s participation in social and economic development.

Under the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) “Future is Female Project,” a community stakeholders’ inception meeting was successfully held, and staff capacity in data collection and analysis was enhanced. The Slovenia Aid Project marked tangible achievements, including the construction of an eco-toilet facility, completion of mushroom nutrition training for 47 participants, and ongoing distribution of menstrual products and digital skills development sessions.

The Global Whole Being Food Security Project advanced agricultural activities with 13 hectares of maize and beans fully planted, weeding in progress, and preparations initiated for a simsim (sesame) demonstration garden aimed at promoting climate-resilient crops. Meanwhile, the Women First Project continued empowering women and girls through tailoring, craft, and literacy programs, enrolling 35 new participants and mobilizing beneficiaries for leather production.

KOWED remains focused on improving data accuracy, expanding outreach, and reinforcing partnerships. The organization plans to intensify monitoring activities, strengthen reporting systems, enhance access to agricultural inputs, and adjust training schedules to meet women’s needs.

Through these collective efforts, KOWED continues to drive women’s empowerment, food security, and sustainable livelihoods—living out its vision that “When she knows, she grows.”