Dili, 23 february, 2024 – Today marks a significant milestone as CARE, in collaboration with local civil society organisations (CSOs), Mane Ho Vizaun Foun (Men With New Vision) and Movimento Feto Foin Sa’e (MOFFE), sign a six-month partnership agreement with funding from the Australia Non-Governmental Cooperation Program (ANCP). The primary objective of this initiative is to bolster women’s economic justice and increase civil society resilience across the Pacific region.
This pioneering program marks a paradigm shift in CARE’s approach, embracing equitable partnership as the cornerstone of its engagement with local civil society organizations. Adopting the principles of equitable partnership empowers national and local actors to spearhead development initiatives, leveraging their inherent strengths, leadership, and contextual insights to tackle local development challenges effectively and achieve tangible outcomes.
Departing from conventional partnership models, this approach positions local partners at the forefront of development initiatives, enabling them to take the lead while CARE provides support to their existing capacities. Unlike some traditional funding mechanisms that typically allocate resources solely for project implementation, this equitable partnership model provides local partners the opportunity to strengthen institutional capacities in identified areas.
Under this partnership, Mane ho Vizaun Foun (MHVF) will implement project activities in the Viqueque municipality, drawing on their expertise in engaging men to promote gender equality and combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV). MHVF’s initiatives include establishing women-led Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) while actively involving men in advocating for non-violent behaviors to foster familial harmony. This intervention is pivotal in creating a GBV-free environment where women can meaningfully contribute to family income.
Americo de Araujo, Director of Mane ho Vizaun Foun, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating “This collaboration will allow us to improve our operational capabilities. We will be able to allocate funds to reinforce our internal policies and processes, which will help guide staff members in their daily duties and contribute to the long-term sustainability of our organisation. In terms of project implementation, we seek to improve women’s groups’ ability to operate their VSLA groups, which is essential for them to contribute to family income. Engaging with men and boys will further complement this.”
Meanwhile, MOFFE and CARE share a mutual objective of amplifying women’s voice at the grassroots level. Despite progress in enabling women’s representation at the national level, there remains a notable gender gap in local leadership roles. In light of this, MOFFE will collaborate closely with women leaders in Dili, Manatuto, Baucau, and Ermera, who were elected in the recent Suco Election. These women leaders will collaborate in initiatives aimed at enhancing their leadership skills, conflict resolution abilities, and awareness on GBV prevention and services. Moreover, they will play a pivotal role in media campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the significance of women’s leadership and gender equality.
Yasinta Lujina, Director of MOFFE, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating “When women have improved leadership ability, they have the potential to speak up for themselves and take decisions for their own lives. This ability is also crucial for them to participate in income-generating activities and meaningfully contribute to family income.”
By embracing an equitable partnership approach, CARE will continue to catalyze transformative change, amplifying the voices of local actors and fostering sustainable development pathways that prioritize inclusivity and gender equality. This initiative not only signifies a progression from traditional aid modalities but also underscores CARE’s unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that empower communities and drive positive change.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
