Women's Sewing Project in Kakuma Refugee Camp

The Kakuma Refugee Women’s Sewing Project has received an important donation of sewing machines and related equipment aimed at strengthening the livelihoods of refugee women through skills development and income-generating activities. The donation was received by the Program Officer on behalf of the women’s sewing group. This support is a significant contribution toward empowering refugee women to become economically self-reliant while strengthening their dignity, resilience, and ability to support their families.

The donation provides the women with essential sewing equipment that will enable them to put their tailoring skills into practice and expand the sewing project. For many refugee women in Kakuma, limited access to productive assets and employment opportunities remains a major challenge. Having sewing machines available within the group will create an opportunity for the women to develop practical skills, produce quality garments and other useful items, and generate income from their work.

The equipment will also provide an opportunity for women who have already received sewing training to continue practicing and improving their skills. New members can learn from experienced members, creating a peer-to-peer learning environment that will contribute to the sustainability of the project.

The donation is expected to have several positive impacts. First, it will create opportunities for income generation. The women can use the machines to make clothes, school uniforms, bags, reusable sanitary pads, household items, and other products for sale within Kakuma and surrounding communities.

Second, the project will contribute to improved household livelihoods. Income earned from sewing can help women meet basic needs such as food, school expenses, clothing, and other household requirements. This will reduce dependency on humanitarian assistance and strengthen the women’s ability to make decisions about their families and future.

Third, the project will promote dignity and confidence among refugee women. Being able to earn an income from their own skills gives women a sense of purpose, pride, and hope. The sewing group also provides a safe space where women can work together, share experiences, encourage one another, and build supportive relationships.

To ensure that the donation has a long-term impact, the women will be encouraged to manage the machines collectively and establish clear guidelines for their use and maintenance. The group can also establish a small savings system from proceeds generated through sewing activities to support repairs, purchase materials, and gradually acquire additional machines.

TCSC also would like to sincerely appreciates Global-Giving for the Special Recognition and the $1,000 donation, as well as all partners and supporters who continue to believe in the potential of refugee women. The support goes beyond providing equipment; it is an investment in women’s dignity, skills, resilience, and economic independence.