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Women fighting poverty together

James Galgallo is development co-ordinator for CAFOD partner the Diocese of Marsabit in Northern Kenya [CAFOD]

James Galgallo, from CAFOD partner the Diocese of Marsabit, talks about the challenges to human and social development presented by harmful cultural practices

In just one day, up to 30 women visit the advocacy clinic in Marsabit for legal advice – an illustration of the frustrations faced in a region of Kenya where broken marriages and female genital mutilation are still commonplace.

Trying to help women in broken marriages is often not easy as many cannot read up on the information they need to know.

James Galgallo has worked for the Diocese of Marsabit for nine years, and says men have difficulties accepting shared responsibilities and control over family resources.

Where there is a group of women doing something, then through training they are empowered to fight for the rights of fellow women

James Galgallo, Diocese of Marsabit

Empowerment through income

The Diocese, supported by CAFOD, trains women in small business management, so they can become independent. But it is a tough task when the women’s immediate priority is a day-to-day struggle against poverty.

James says: “Women are now challenging the injustices done to them. It has been the culture of women to keep quiet – but now they can speak for themselves.”

“We want them to acquire skills so that when the programme comes to an end they have something that can be sustained in the longer term.”

Women are also proving vital in the fight against the spread of HIV within the diocese. The Diocese of Marsabit takes a holistic approach to the problem - despite limited resources, the aim is to give good care where possible, and ensure no discrimination.

James says: “Men don’t want to talk about AIDS. Men are like lions – they only accept they are weak when they are about to die. The men blame women for the disease. They say ‘it is you who has brought it here”.

“We held a seminar prior to World AIDS Day where we sensitised people about AIDS. Then there was a demonstration with people walking into town carrying posters and singing songs”.

“Information about AIDS is now getting through, such as ways of avoiding getting AIDS, and the way a husband and wife should stay together.

"It is not a woman alone, everyone has to be straight with each other.”

(Left to right) Richard Cockle, John Corney, Lizzie Cranfield, and Gavin Baxter celebrate together after finishing the Great North Run 2005 [CAFOD]

CAFOD is the official Catholic aid agency for England and Wales

Women fighting poverty together

Empowerment through income