Launch of Cash for Work Initiative: Empowering Communities through Sustainable Cooking Solutions
Energy is essential for economic development and improving living standards. However, the use of traditional biomass fuels like firewood and charcoal for cooking poses significant health, environmental, and socio-economic challenges. To address these issues, the Raising Gabdho Foundation (RGF), in partnership with DanChurchAid (DCA) and with support from UNHCR and the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), has launched a transformative Cash for Work (CFW) initiative. This SAFE intervention for urban refugees aims to engage refugees and vulnerableUgandans in the production of slow heat-retaining baskets and improved cookstoves, providing employment opportunities and promoting cleaner, more efficient cooking solutions.
The Cash for Work initiative is designed with several key objectives:
Fostering the Production of Sustainable Cooking Solutions
The initiative focuses on creating slow heat-retaining baskets and improved cookstoves, which are designed to enhance cooking efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize environmental impact. By involving clients in the production process, the initiative not only addresses immediate employment needs but also enhances the availability of clean cooking technologies in the community.
Empowering Individuals Through Income Generation
The program provides clients with opportunities to earn an income while contributing to the community. Economic empowerment through the CFW initiative supports financial security, fosters dignity, and enables personal and professional growth. These clients can use their earnings to improve their quality of life and contribute to poverty reduction.
Promoting the Adoption of Clean Cooking Technologies:
By producing and distributing slow heat-retaining baskets and improved cookstoves locally, the initiative raises awareness about the benefits of clean cooking technologies and makes them more accessible. This effort is crucial for improving health outcomes, reducing environmental degradation, and enhancing socio-economic opportunities. Involving both refugee and host communities fosters social cohesion and collaboration.
Today’s Milestone
Today marks the official launch of the Cash for Work initiative, and we are excited to share our progress. Twelve clients, who previously acquired their skills through training in energy technologies under the Rebuild Project, have been selected for this initiative. After a rigorous application and interview process, six refugee women are now engaged in crafting slow heat-retaining baskets, while six other refugees (2 men and 4 women) are working on producing improved cookstoves. This hands-on involvement is not only creating essential cooking tools but also providing valuable employment opportunities and skills development.
Client’s Stories
Tumusifu Mulemesh, one of our dedicated clients, shared her heartfelt gratitude: “I am very grateful to RGF for this opportunity. As a mother and a wife, this job not only provides essential income to support my family but also equips me with invaluable skills. I’m even planning to use one of these baskets to keep food warm for my husband when he comes home.”
In the vibrant heart of a traditional African home, where cooking is both a cherished ritual and a daily necessity, Tumusifu’s new role is truly transformative. The aroma of cooking and the use of traditional tools are central to family life, and her involvement in crafting these slow heat-retaining baskets brings a refreshing change. Each basket she creates is more than just a practical tool—it’s a symbol of warmth and care, blending tradition with innovation.
Gloria, a young person, shared her excitement: “Being part of this initiative makes me feel privileged. Instead of spending my time chatting on my phone, I am now making these baskets, which will be a source of income and help me support myself as a young girl.”
Poverty remains a significant issue in Uganda, with around 21% of the population living below the national poverty line. Refugees face additional economic hardships, making initiatives like this even more crucial. The Cash for Work initiative addresses these challenges by providing direct economic support and skills development. RGF’s broader efforts, including various empowerment programs and community support initiatives, play a vital role in addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development.
Author’s Note
As a storyteller committed to sustainability and community empowerment, I am passionate about sharing narratives that highlight the transformative power of clean energy solutions. This blog post encapsulates the essence of our mission at Raising Gabdho Foundation (RGF) to inspire change through practical training and innovative initiatives. By providing meaningful employment opportunities and promoting the production of sustainable cooking solutions, we are not only addressing immediate socio-economic needs but also fostering long-term environmental stewardship.
Join us in supporting this transformative initiative and be a part of the positive change we are striving to achieve. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those we aim to uplift.
Regards,
Tukuza Meleki Andre.
Citations:
- Raising Gabdho Foundation (RGF). Empowering Communities through Sustainable Cooking Solutions.
- DanChurchAid (DCA). Partnerships for Sustainable Development.
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Support for Urban Refugees.
As a young refugee I had lost hope , since I didn’t have what do but there come Raising Gabdho foundation (RGF) where by I had to research about it and I found it is an enterprise led by lady empowered me to join the training and through the training I got amazing skill of slow heat retaining basket I am so glad that I will not remain jobless thanks (RGF)