Our Programme

Strengthening the Voice of Women in Small Scale Fishing Communities

Skillshare International is working in partnership with the National Institute for the Development of Small-scale Fisheries (IDPPE) in Mozambique on a fouryear project to reduce poverty and hunger amongst vulnerable fishing communities by supporting women working in the sector.

Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world; more than 50% of the population live below the poverty line. Half a million people depend on fishing activities for their livelihood, and small-scale fishing is vital for food security and rural employment.

The number of women working in the sector has increased significantly, but it remains a male-dominated environment. Women often face discrimination and violence, rarely own

resources such as boats and nets, and are under-represented in decision-making bodies.

The focus of this project is on women and children; female entrepreneurs are empowered with the skills and knowledge to influence policies that have an impact on their lives, families and livelihoods. Through opportunities to participate in training and skills development activities, women working in the small-scale fishing sector are increasing productivity and improving their access to markets. The project also aims to raise awareness of human rights and gender equity issues.

The project started in June 2011 and is part-funded by Irish Aid, but we still need to raise additional funds. If you would like to support Skillshare Ireland's work with small-scale fishing communities in Mozambique, or any of our other projects, please irelandinfo@skillshare.org or click on Support Us on the top right hand side of this page.

Skillshare International Ireland acknowledges the generous support of Irish Aid.

Past Projects

Skillshare International Ireland has supported locally-based organisations in Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique and Swaziland to improve the lives of people in their communities.

Read more about our past projects in Lesotho:


• Development worker strengthens government campaign to cut HIV and AIDS in Lesotho

• Phomolong HIV and AIDS Support Group

• Access to health care in Lesotho


Read more about our past project the Kindlimuka Sewing Project for people living with HIV/AIDS in Mozambique.

Find out more about Skillshare International's other programmes at www.skillshare.org and www.coachingforhope.org

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