Empowered women leaders as disaster responders

Madalena, a 50-year-old woman from Bobonaro Municipality, emerged as a potential leader. Engaged since 2019, she played a crucial role in community mobilisation for disaster preparedness. Madalena was elected as the female delegate of the Suco Disaster Management Committee and joined the village council.

Facing various challenges, such as transportation issues, Madalena received full support from her family, especially her husband. Despite obstacles, she actively shared her knowledge with other women, emphasizing women's leadership potential. Madalena also participated in WVTL's saving and loan group, contributing to knowledge dissemination in rural areas.

Madalena's leadership role involved addressing natural and man-made disasters through training in disaster risk management, first aid, and gender and disability inclusion. Despite obstacles, she successfully balanced family responsibilities and community engagement.

WVTL emphasizes that women's participation brings positive changes to communities. The project highlights the importance of collaboration between men and women in sharing responsibilities and being prepared for disasters.

The project benefited 24,942 people in 12 villages, including 13,243 women and 11,699 men. Additionally, 89 women and 31 men, including 2 people with disabilities, received leadership training. Household decision-making training was also conducted to promote more equitable decision-making power between men and women in households.