WOMENS GLOBAL EMPOWERMENT FUND

As of December 2023, our Credit Plus program has given over 40,562 microcredit loans, 3629+ new loans in 2023, (498 borrowing groups), basic business training and opportunities to participants in development programs. We made our first loan in October, 2007 and since April, 2008, have experienced rapid growth. We continue to add funds to our loan portfolio, creating and building capacity in our programs. Our reputation in the community is positive; we have a good, solid, fair program, resulting in new groups applying weekly. Several indicators highlight the success of this program and where we are at this point in time. One, we have had no defaults; two, groups continue to expand and grow their businesses, many women are hiring assistants and employees from their villages; three, we have created a complete and vibrant local food economy by supporting women farmers; also, Gulu Women's Resource Centre (GWRC) and Leadership Development continued in 2023, providing support and resources for women and girls experiencing gender based violence, forced marriage and other challenges. Program Highlights: * Peer Counseling ongoing training and support - 238 women leaders * Access to Justice for Women - This Program is fully functioning in the community providing women support and information about the justice system, navigating breakages in the justice chain and referrals. We have 22 trained counselors who have helped navigate support women in over 1500 cases in 2023 and a toll free nationwide number has been secured and is fully operational. * GWRC supported over 2000 women facing gender based violence by providing support and resources. * 108 girls prevented from forced/early marriage through the Access to Justice Family Mediation Initiative. * The Healthy Periods Initiative has distributed nearly 8.5m sanitary products to women and school girls, including monthly deliveries and education to women, girls across the regions. In 2023, 450,000 sanitary products were delivered to 26 schools across the region. * Agro Loan Program - in 2023 900+ women were given ag loans to support/create small/medium scale farm projects; including ongoing trainings and support. * 572+ serving in leadership positions across the region.