Qatar Charity (QC), with the backing of generous donors, has delivered approximately 145 sewing machines and related supplies to women and girls from vulnerable communities and internally displaced families in Burkina Faso. This initiative, part of around 145 economic empowerment projects implemented by QC in the country, has reached 1,015 beneficiaries, aiming to strengthen livelihoods and promote economic self-reliance.

The distribution of sewing machines was carried out in coordination with Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Family and Solidarity, which oversaw the project and commended its partnership with Qatar Charity. The ministry highlighted QC’s role in supporting government efforts focused on social protection and economic empowerment, particularly by expanding vocational opportunities and improving livelihoods for disadvantaged groups such as women, orphans, and internally displaced persons.

The program is designed to enable beneficiaries to launch income-generating activities or expand existing small businesses, thereby improving their living standards and fostering social and economic inclusion. For many families facing difficult circumstances, especially internally displaced persons, the support has provided a critical pathway to greater financial stability.

Several beneficiaries shared how the assistance has impacted their lives. Sonde Elodie, an orphan in her final year of vocational training, said receiving a sewing machine has offered her a real chance to establish a career. Prior to the support, she was uncertain about how to achieve self-reliance after graduation. The equipment will allow her to work, gain experience, and eventually open her own workshop near her village.

Another recipient, Sarah Sorgo, runs her own tailoring business and trains two apprentices. She described the project as transformative, providing financial independence that enables her to contribute to household expenses and improve her family’s quality of life.

Hélène Ouédraogo, also a beneficiary, noted that the sewing machine has allowed her to generate income and support her family’s needs, expressing gratitude to the donors and organizations involved.

Bernadette Sou Bar, an official with a center associated with the Ministry of Family and Solidarity, emphasized the importance of providing graduates with sewing equipment as a bridge between vocational training and meaningful employment. She noted that many young women struggle to enter the workforce due to a lack of necessary tools and that Qatar Charity’s assistance is helping to advance their professional and economic inclusion in society.