Strengthening the capacity of individuals, organizations and communities as builders of a dignified future.
Development Cooperation
Development Cooperation
Sower International focuses on strengthening the capacity of individuals, organizations and communities as builders of a dignified future. We believe that everyone is valuable and able to develop and influence their lives, families and communities, for the benefit of the whole society.
Together with our partners we have worked for 45 years in East and South Asia and East Africa, in areas such as language, vocational and income-generating activities, health care and availability of services. We have especially partnered with persons with disabilities and persons in vulnerable situations, such as mothers without family support, rural families and children, and ethnic minority groups. Capacity building through life-skills, vocational and other trainings and strengthening unity increases sustainability and benefits the whole village and community.
Achievements include sign language research and publication of an online sign language dictionary, strengthened organizations for persons with disabilities, savings groups and cooperatives, improved maternal and child health care, reduction of child marriages and increased opportunities for girls.
Growing Good Through Development
Bangladesh
In rural Bangladesh, thousands of families’ lives have improved:
- Household income generation: By participating in saving groups, families have significantly increased their income levels. Over a span of three years, these groups collectively saved 45,000 euros, utilizing their savings to buy livestock like cattle, establish small-scale businesses, and invest in their children’s future through educational support. The savings have become a powerful tool for fostering financial independence and stability.
- Food security has been improved substantially through the introduction of home gardens, livestock rearing, and various income-generating activities. These efforts not only provide families with nutritious food options but also create sustainable sources of income that contribute to their overall well-being.
- Children’s health has been improved thanks to targeted nutritional programs and rehabilitative activities. These initiatives have enhanced children’s accessibility to vital nutrients and care, laying a stronger foundation for their growth and development.
- Adolescent health has received significant attention through youth clubs, where 6,000 young individuals have enhanced their health and life skills, preparing them for a brighter and healthier future.
- The capacity of local leaders to drive positive change within their communities has been enhanced. These leaders, including village elders, teachers, and religious leaders, play an important role. This leadership development fosters collaboration and enables communities to tackle challenges with strengthened support networks and collective wisdom.
Mongolia
In Mongolia, persons with disabilities lives have improved:
- Peer groups have played a significant role in helping individuals build their self-esteem, providing a safe space for support, connection, and shared experiences.
- Organizations for persons with disabilities have been strengthened through capacity-building programs, including training in financial and administrative management, project planning, and the effective use of modern technology. This has equipped these organizations to better advocate for the needs of their members and implement projects.
- Accessibility to healthcare services has been significantly enhanced, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the medical care and support they need with greater ease.
- The development of an online Mongolian sign language dictionary has created an invaluable resource that bridges communication gaps and promotes inclusion, especially for the Deaf community.
- Collaboration among key stakeholders, including organizations for persons with disabilities, government officials, and universities, has been fostered and strengthened, creating a network dedicated to advancing rights and opportunities for people with disabilities across the country.
