ISF’s 2022–2025 programme reached nearly 200,000 people in East Africa

The International Solidarity Foundation has published the results of its 2022–2025 Development Programme, which worked to advance women’s and girls’ rights, strengthen bodily integrity and improve livelihood opportunities in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somaliland.

During the four-year period, ISF supported 17 projects implemented primarily with local partner organisations. Approximately 38,000 people participated directly in programme activities, and the programme contributed to improvements in the lives of more than 198,000 people. Women and girls accounted for 75% of those reached.

The programme made progress in preventing violence against women and girls, including female genital mutilation (FGM) and intimate partner violence. Community support for abandoning FGM grew, while cooperation with local authorities, civil society organisations, health professionals and community leaders strengthened prevention efforts and access to support services.

ISF also supported women’s economic empowerment through cooperatives, savings groups, vocational training and climate-resilient livelihood initiatives. Women gained greater access to markets, services and decision-making structures, helping to strengthen income opportunities and resilience to climate-related and economic shocks.

The programme’s results underline the importance of locally led action and collaboration across communities, civil society and public institutions. The lessons learned have informed ISF’s 2026–2029 strategy, with a stronger focus on gender-transformative approaches, advocacy and sustainable, community-led solutions.