Incubator and Safe Space for Women’s Empowerment

Themenfeld: Gender Equality

Advisory

Human Rights & Civ. Soc.

Learn&Share: knowhow3000

problem & solution

In the province of Manica, strong patriarchal structures continue to restrict women’s and girls’ access to education, financial autonomy, and participation in decision-making. These systemic inequalities increase their vulnerability to gender-based violence and social exclusion.

The solution was the creation of an “incubator”—a safe space for women and girls to learn about their rights, build life skills, and develop income-generating abilities. Through practical training, psychosocial support, and inclusive community dialogue, the incubator model promoted women’s empowerment while also engaging men, leaders, and institutions.

the experience

The project featured five crucial aspects:

Target group identification: LeMuSiCa selected participants based on community consultations and prior involvement with women and girls who had experienced domestic violence, early marriage, or exclusion due to poverty and HIV.
Participatory planning: Women helped define the incubator’s activities and schedule to ensure that training addressed their specific needs and realities, including both economic and social components.
Training and empowerment: Women received training in areas such as bakery, tailoring, food processing, and life skills, alongside sessions on human rights, literacy, and health. The goal was to foster income generation and self-reliance while reducing dependence and exposure to violence.
Engaging men and transforming mindsets: Sessions were designed for men and boys to explore masculinity, responsibility, and respect. Dialogue sessions were also held with traditional leaders, local government, schools, religious figures, and families to discuss existing challenges and raise awareness about women’s rights,
Women-led outreach and protection mechanisms: Trained women became local multipliers, peer supporters, and formed community groups who supported others, prevented violence, and were in contact with authorities.

Challenges

Even with community dialogues and awareness sessions, some men—especially in positions of authority—remained resistant to changing entrenched gender roles or supporting women’s empowerment.
Many participants had limited literacy, requiring customised approaches and more time to build capacity.
The sustainability of incubator activities depended heavily on external funding and consistent staffing, making it difficult to maintain continuous programming or scale up interventions in other districts.

Impact

Formation of women-led multiplier groups and community-based “sentinels” who advocate for rights, support local dispute resolution and link survivors to services.
Expanded economic independence through micro-enterprise skills in baking, tailoring, and other practical trades.
Women who participated in the program began assuming visible roles as community leaders and role models, inspiring others.

Lessons Learned

Providing hands-on training and income-generating skills reduces women’s vulnerability to violence and increases resilience.
Literacy and education remain essential foundations for autonomy and rights claiming.
When given space and support, women not only overcome adversity—they lead change in their families and communities.