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30 April 2025, 14:00-17:00 BST
Driving transformation – Mothers’ Union using literacy as a vehicle for change
BALID Informal Literacy Discussion
Mothers’ Union literacy circles transform communities beyond teaching reading and writing. In Burundi, 144,000 people (89% women) have achieved literacy through programmes that now include financial education and business development. In DRC, literacy circles incorporate agricultural training that reduces food insecurity and increases economic independence despite ongoing displacement. While in South Sudan, they empower women to understand their rights, resolve conflicts and challenge gender norms. The programmes’ success stems from its holistic approach combining literacy, knowledge development, financial empowerment, and communal support to create pathways for women’s leadership while strengthening community resilience.
Naomi Herbert is a gender equality and adult literacy specialist with 22+ years of international development experience across four continents. As Acting Head of Literacy & Strategic Partnerships at Mothers’ Union, she has supported adult literacy and financial education programmes in six African countries, using literacy to drive economic empowerment and reduce gender-based violence. A 2022 Longitudinal study of the Burundi programme showed literacy circles combined with savings groups accelerate women’s economic independence and leadership while reducing domestic violence.