Blogs

USAID is committed to being a leading investor, partner, and advocate to achieve the goal of gender equality across societies. Jamille Bigio, USAID Senior Gender Coordinator for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, highlights 10 of the ways USAID is advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment around the world.

Women play a critical role in agricultural research communities and help ensure that innovations work for all farmers and participants in agrifood systems Read the stories of women researchers working in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and beyond to end hunger and create more resilient food systems through their contributions in science, technology, research and agriculture.

In the face of societal norms in Upper Egypt where women do not typically own business or work in public-facing roles, Asmaa’s journey is an inspiring testament to resilience and the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

USAID’s Amazon Business Alliance, a joint initiative with the Government of Canada and Conservation International, promotes economic development based on the sustainable use of natural resources and on gender and intercultural approaches to improve the people’s welfare and forest conservation.

Project Kirana recognized the complex set of problems encountered by women micro entrepreneurs in India: limited business and digital financial capabilities, and limited access to formal financial services. By equipping women entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they needed—including financial and digital literacy expertise, business management skills, and strategies for addressing cultural barriers—over 2,500 women were able to grow their small retail businesses and increase their incomes.

Gender equitable and inclusive climate programming improves adaptation, mitigation, and resilience results while also reducing gender inequality and elevating women as climate leaders. 

The Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPA) mandates that all USAID strategies in certain countries incorporate approaches to protect children and reduce the risk of trafficking.

The USAID/Microsoft Airband Initiative is closing the gender digital divide by bringing internet access to more women around the world, expanding women’s economic opportunities, and enabling digital development services.

"Particularly in Kenya, chamas are such ubiquitous and strong organizational networks for women." - Rebecca Glas

"Because of the training that I received from USAID, I became aware of issues happening in our community." – Karim Macapundag Sarip