Breaking Barriers: A journey of transformation towards gender equality

Through training delivered in collaboration with partners—including ‘Union Pour L’emancipation de la Femme Autochtone’ (UEFA), ‘Initiative des Femmes Pour la Promotion de la Paix et le Developpment’ (IFPPD), and the ‘Beans for Women Empowerment’ (B4WE) project in Eastern DRC, funded by Global Affairs Canada—Mrs. Furaha (a farmer and mother of four) broke the cycle of inequality and violence that had long affected her household.

Her husband, Mr. Bikoto, a teacher and farmer, gradually changed his behavior: reducing alcohol consumption, taking on household responsibilities, and sharing income. The couple improved their crop productivity by adopting improved agricultural techniques and a joint budget, creating a more harmonious family environment. Their success demonstrates how social behavioral change communication (SBCC) and collaboration can transform deeply rooted patriarchal norms.