By Mastora Bakhiet | Executive Director
Economic Empowerment of Safe Stoves Production Groups-Darfur Refugee Women
How refugee women are transforming their lives, families, and communities—one stove at a time.
At the Darfur Women Network, we believe in women’s strength—not just to survive, but to lead, transform, and uplift entire communities.
Thanks to the unwavering support of GlobalGiving and compassionate donors around the world, 3,840 safe stoves have been produced by courageous refugee women. In this final stage, they made 600 more stoves, marking a historic milestone:
Every mother in the camp now has a safe stove.
Fatima – Refugee Mother & Stove Maker:
"These stoves have changed our lives. The income helps us buy food, clothes, and even school supplies for our children. We feel proud and hopeful."
But this project is about more than just stoves—it’s about economic empowerment, dignity, and survival.
These women organized themselves into production groups, developed work schedules, managed materials, and made group decisions. Through this, they gained not only income but confidence, solidarity, and respect in their community.
Production Group Member:
"I feel confident and happy. Our relationships with our families and neighbors have improved. We used to be undervalued , but now, we are seen as strong women, as providers, as leaders. We’ve changed how our community sees women—we are social change agents."
The stoves are Life-saving and Economic Empowerment;
Production Group Member:
"During the rainy season, this project saved us. We had no farms, no income. Making safe stoves gave us purpose and hope. But now we ask… what comes after safe stoves? How can we continue to survive and grow? How will GlobalGiving support us in the next chapter?"
This project has shown us what’s possible when women are given the tools to lead. As we close this chapter, we open the door to new dreams—projects that build on this success:
Small businesses
Farming cooperatives
Skills training
Leadership programs
This is not the end. It’s the beginning of a stronger future—one led by the very women who once felt forgotten. Here is more information: https://youtu.be/XvT-iUM3oxQ
With heartfelt gratitude:
To our partners at GlobalGiving, thank you for standing with us. Your support has not only shielded 7,000 families from violence and illness but has created a movement of empowered, resilient women ready to lead the way forward.
Together, we’ve done more than distribute stoves.
We’ve sparked change.
A Message of Thanks
This impact would not have been possible without YOU—our compassionate donors, dedicated volunteers, and valued partners. Your unwavering support has brought hope, health, and dignity to thousands of families.
We especially thank GlobalGiving for making this project successful. Your partnership supports essential human needs and helps us reach even the most vulnerable.
Thank you
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