A few years ago, a group of participants in the Preparation for Social Action (PSA) program from the Naminya community in Uganda committed themselves, with the support of our partner Kimanya-Ngeyo Foundation, to promoting the well-being of their society. They were inspired by their tutor and by various PSA program documents and other texts, such as newspaper excerpts. They were assisted by farmers and community members who also participated in this effort to bring about positive change in their community.

Through the many meetings, the women of the Naminya PSA group are engaged in meaningful conversations and have adopted a lifestyle that continues to improve their lives. These discussion spaces allow them to address topics such as how to help their children develop intellectually, morally and spiritually.

Thanks to the members of the PSA groups, children’s classes have been created, which have improved their education and allowed the women to participate even more in the community. They have also initiated many projects in the field of agriculture. They have created collective gardens where they grow tomatoes and bananas, and have started individual projects such as pig and chicken farms, which have increased their income. 

Similarly, small savings groups have been encouraged by the women of Naminya, spearheaded by the PSA members. These savings groups allow women to save small amounts according to their individual incomes. Small loans are thus granted with low interest to those who wish to improve their small businesses and projects. This activity has really helped them to improve their lives and increase their incomes.

The PSA program also raises awareness of gender equality and the importance of women developing their qualities and skills. Today, women in the Naminya community explain, “We have learned that for the community to develop, it starts with us, so whatever information and knowledge we gain, we disseminate to the community through conversations. During the few months of the pandemic, it was important to educate the community on how to keep their family members healthy, including eating a balanced diet and washing their hands. As women, we have learned that it is the responsibility of both the woman and the man to raise a successful family, so we don’t just wait for the men to support the household alone. We have developed different qualities and skills. We can say that our lives have improved greatly.”

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