Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity May30, 2013 Washington, DC Value Girls Program: Increasing Resilience through Economic and Social Development Sherry Khan Cardno Emerging Markets USA
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Background Target population: Young women years Location: Nyanza and Western Province, Kenya Objective: Improve the socio-economic welfare of these young women Approach: Strengthen participation in high growth value chains Period of performance: Funders: Nike Foundation and USAID
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Conceptual Approach Her Household Value Girl Market System
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Program Model Improve socio- economic development of girls and young women Production and Market Linkages Access to Credit Savings Mobilization Core Components Core Strategies Economic Social Support Activities Program Management Local Facilitating Partners KBDS Men and Boys Technical Service Providers Business Development Financial Literacy Mentorship
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Results Young women in enterprises: 2202 Men & boys reached: 1643 % of girls with increased incomes: 71% % of girls with savings accounts: 75% Loans disbursed: 1121 valued ~$145,000 Loan repayment rate: 90% Increased confidence & decision making
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Lessons Learned Who does it? Who pays? A phased approach helps manage risk “Learning by doing” is attractive to young women Despite low incomes they save regularly Young women often have the best solutions to their problems – they’re resourceful Be demand, not supply, driven Don’t shield young women from market risks Involve men and boys early on
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Challenges Starting a business takes time Operating in a culture of handouts Value Girls’ understanding of project objectives low – older women caught on more quickly Constant changes in market Previous bad experience with financial institutions
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Assets Social support Business education Own enterprises Savings Financial literacy and access to finance Increased respect at home & in community Higher self esteem They are now economic agents of the household and community.
Harnessing the Power of Cross-sectoral Programming to Alleviate HIV/AIDS and Food Insecurity Thank you!