Rubirizi, Uganda – Women in Kicwamba Sub County are fighting household poverty through handcraft businesses and are calling on government to support them with raw materials and market access.
Madam Mukundane Scovia, Chairperson of the Kicwamba Women Creative Bee Initiative, said members walk up to 20 kilometers to collect raw materials for their crafts. The group produces baskets, mats, trays, traditional containers, and earrings to defy poverty, empower women and teenagers, and create a supportive environment for girls while seeking financial independence.
“We don’t want handouts. We work tirelessly to feed our families and pay school fees for our children,” Scovia said. She urged government to help the group access materials and strengthen the initiative to boost prosperity and increase household incomes.
Scovia emphasized the importance of equipping women with knowledge and practical skills to enhance their well-being and support their families sustainably.
Group member Madam Aine Shira said the women are determined not to depend solely on their husbands for financial support. “We are working hard to generate our own income and improve our families’ livelihoods,” she said.
The group cited key challenges, including limited access to affordable materials, lack of reliable markets, transport constraints, and insufficient support to strengthen their association.
They are now appealing to the Ministry of Tourism to support the initiative by strengthening the association, providing essential materials, and helping them access better markets for their products. The effort highlights the resilience and determination of rural women transforming their communities and building sustainable household incomes.
Story By: Tugume Muzafaru
