ECSC SUN successfully conducted the official handover ceremony of the Women’s Economic Empowerment and Adolescent Initiative (WEE & AI ) Pilot Project in Jigjiga, Somali Region—marking a significant milestone in advancing sustainable, nutrition-sensitive livelihoods for women and communities.
During the ceremony, the ECSC-SUN team delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining:
- Key achievements, with evidence of positive behavioral change and improved livelihoods among target communities
- Challenges encountered throughout implementation
- Strategic way forward, emphasizing sustainability and the potential to scale the initiative to additional woredas
The Somali Regional Livestock and Agriculture Bureau, together with woreda-level sector offices, provided essential technical guidance and coordination. Their strong collaboration and field-level engagement were critical to the success of the pilot.
Impact Highlight: Goljano Woreda
Goljano Woreda stands out as a powerful example of transformation. Initially, poultry production was unfamiliar to the community, and acceptance of poultry inputs was low. Through consistent Social and Behavioral
Change Communication (SBCC) efforts—paired with Gender Model Family (GMF) training, which strengthens gender relations and promotes joint household decision-making—significant social and behavioral shifts began to take shape.
Today, households in Goljano are actively engaging in poultry production and consuming eggs, leading to better nutrition, improved gender collaboration, and increased income opportunities for families.
Recognition of Exceptional Partners
ECSC SUN awarded Certificates of Recognition to key contributors at both regional and woreda levels. These individuals and institutions demonstrated exemplary commitment, collaboration, and professionalism throughout the project cycle, playing a vital role in achieving the pilot’s outcomes.
Official Project Handover
The WEE & AI pilot project was formally transferred to the respective regional and woreda government authorities. This transition reinforces local ownership and opens the door for potential expansion to additional woredas.
This moment represents a shared achievement—driven by collaboration, innovation, and a collective commitment to strengthening women’s economic empowerment and improving nutrition across the Somali Region.
#ECSCSUN #WEE &AI #SomaliRegion
