Women reclaiming leadership
39, Tanganyika
Sidonia Nkungwa
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Sidonia Nkungwa Lupia, a member of the Twa community, once faced the harsh realities of displacement and poverty. But through the support of WFP and FAO initiatives, Sidonia's life, and that of her community, has taken a profound turn.
“Before the programme, we were scattered, divided by mistrust and years of struggle,” Sidonia reflects. “But WFP and FAO came to us in 2017, uniting us into Farmer Organisations. It wasn’t easy at first—working together was a foreign concept to many. Yet, over time, we learned the value of collaboration.”
The community pooled their resources, reinvesting in livestock like pigs and goats, ensuring a sustainable future for everyone involved.
For Sidonia, the changes extended beyond agriculture. She proudly recounts the literacy programme introduced by WFP. “I couldn't read or write before,” she admits. “But now, I manage finances for our savings group. Women like me, once overlooked, now hold key leadership positions in our organisations.”
“At first, many didn't see the point of working together and preferred receiving food distributions. However, after harvesting 100 bags of peanuts and 100 bags of maize, we understood the value of collaboration.”
“I was a poor widow with nothing. Thanks to the group, I bought land, built a house, and regained my dignity.”
“I was a poor widow with nothing. Thanks to the group, I bought land, built a house, and regained my dignity.”
“Before, we farmed just to survive. Today, we know how to store, sell together, and invest in the future.”
