The project „Comunități durabile și reziliente la schimbări climatice prin abilitarea femeilor“ is a comprehensive initiative aimed at empowering women in rural areas to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. With a budget of 3.175.389,24 USD funded by Sweden, the project covers regions such as Nisporeni, Călărași, Basarabeasca, Leova, UTA Găgăuzia, the Transnistrian region, and the security zone.
The primary focus of the project is to address the disproportionate impact of climate change on women in rural communities. Studies have shown that women in these areas are four times more likely to experience extreme poverty and are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Therefore, it is crucial to provide them with the necessary tools and resources to enhance their access to income-generating activities, support services, and knowledge on sustainable natural resource management.
One of the key strategies of the project is to build resilient and sustainable communities by empowering women to implement alternative income-generating activities in the face of environmental degradation and climate vulnerabilities. The project will work with women’s groups in 30 communities across various regions to enhance their knowledge and skills in sustainable agricultural and forestry practices and explore alternative income-generating activities in these sectors.
The main objective of the project is to develop inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities and create an enabling environment for the economic, social, and educational empowerment of women. The expected outcomes include the establishment of sustainable livelihoods that are environmentally friendly and resilient to climate change, capacity building for local NGOs to provide expertise to local authorities and women in climate resilience and sustainable development, and the implementation of environmentally friendly and climate-resilient practices by women-led households, agricultural producers, and communities.
The project has already achieved significant milestones, including the development of gender-integrated action plans for local development in several regions, capacity building for public officials on climate and gender legislation, and the provision of technical assistance to environmental NGOs. Additionally, over 800 women-led households and agricultural entrepreneurs have improved their skills in managing eco-friendly businesses, and over 200 hectares of land have been sustainably managed.
Overall, the project has made a positive impact on the lives of women in rural communities, empowering them to adapt to climate change and build sustainable livelihoods. Through collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and women’s groups, the project has successfully promoted gender-sensitive climate resilience and environmental sustainability practices. With continued support and funding, the project aims to expand its reach and create lasting change in the targeted regions.