Self-Help Group (SHG)
An informal association of impoverished communities, united in their aim to collaborate for economic, social development, and empowerment, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) promote human rights enjoyment for vulnerable and marginalized populations, particularly the poorest among them. This approach begins by prioritizing the needs of the most impoverished women and their children before expanding its focus to encompass entire families and communities. Built upon existing strengths and capabilities, the SHG Approach empowers impoverished individuals through social, economic, and political avenues, enabling them to assert and realize their rights as human beings, citizens, and active members of society.
Currently, the SHG approach is being implemented within internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the Nugaal, Karkaar, and Beri regions. This initiative targets these communities due to their displacement resulting from conflicts, widespread poverty, marginalization, and limited influence. The project’s goal is to empower these individuals regarding their rights. Through the formation of SHGs, people’s capacities and assets are enhanced, enabling them to make informed decisions, take action, and participate in local governance.
Each SHG typically consists of 15 to 20 members, with a total of 8 Cluster Level Associations (CLA) formed as SHGs expand in number.
Self Help Groups were trained in the following so as to deliver the results:
Responsibilities of Self-Help Group (SHG) and Cluster Level Association (CLA) tiers involve comprehensive member training to grasp their functions and project advantages.
Emphasis is placed on devising action plans across all groups, fostering a shared mission and vision.
Members are equipped with essential skills through specialized training sessions, such as bookkeeping for SHG records like loan documentation and meeting summaries.
CLA members receive guidance on judicious investment strategies, highlighting the significance of singular, low-labor investments.
Current statistics indicate significant progress:
There are currently 23,106 SHG members.
These SHGs have established over 18,645 businesses.
The total capital accumulated from their savings amounts to $12 million USD.
More than 129,972 children across Puntland are benefiting from the project.
Increased awareness of health and hygiene within the community has been observed.
The community’s ability to address social issues at the village level has improved.
Contributions have been made to community projects, including food collection for those affected by drought.
There is evidence of enhanced status, participation, and decision-making power at the household level, characterized by independent opinions, the right to make choices, and increased participation in local governance, leading to an improved standard of living.
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