Executive Summary
The Self-Help Group (SHG) program is a cornerstone of FWA's economic empowerment strategy. Through village-based savings and lending groups, women gain financial independence, build community solidarity, and create sustainable livelihoods for their families. In 2025, the program reached significant milestones in membership, savings, and community impact.
Throughout 2025, FWA's SHG program expanded across multiple provinces in Burundi, reaching more women and communities with life-changing economic empowerment opportunities. The program facilitates peer-to-peer savings, micro-lending, and business skills development.
Key Statistics 2025
Membership Breakdown
Women: 3,365 (93%)
Men: 256 (7%)
Gender Focus: The program remains primarily focused on women's economic empowerment, with growing male participation indicating community-wide buy-in.
Impact Stories
Behind the statistics are real women whose lives have been transformed through the SHG program. Here are two stories that illustrate the program's impact.
Anitha's Story: From Struggle to Success
"When I joined the Self-Help Group, I had nothing. I was a single mother struggling to feed my children. Through the group, I learned how to save even small amounts of money. After six months, I received a loan of 50,000 BIF to start a small business selling vegetables at the market. Today, I have a thriving business, my children are in school, and I am even able to save for emergencies. The SHG changed my life completely."
- Anitha, SHG member from Bujumbura
Gloriose's Story: Building a Future
"Before the SHG, I depended entirely on my husband for everything. I had no money of my own and no say in how household finances were managed. Through the group, I learned business skills and financial literacy. I started a small tailoring business with my savings and a group loan. Now I contribute to household expenses and my children's education. I have gained respect in my family and community."
- Gloriose, SHG member from Gitega
Case Study: DUSHIGIKIRANE SHG
DUSHIGIKIRANE (meaning "Let's Support Each Other") is one of FWA's most successful Self-Help Groups. Established in 2022, this group of 25 women has become a model for community-based economic empowerment.
Group Achievements
- Total savings of 45 million BIF in 2025
- 100% loan repayment rate
- 5 members started their own businesses
- 3 members built permanent houses
- All members' children are enrolled in school
- Group received recognition from local government
Capacity Building Pathway
FWA's SHG program follows a structured capacity building pathway to ensure groups develop sustainably and achieve maximum impact. The pathway includes training, mentorship, and ongoing support.
Phase 1: Formation & Training
New groups receive foundational training on savings principles, group governance, loan management, and financial literacy. Facilitators provide ongoing mentorship during the first six months.
Phase 2: Growth & Consolidation
Groups that have completed Phase 1 receive advanced training on business skills, market linkages, and group federation. They also begin to access larger loans and develop savings habits.
Phase 3: Independence & Leadership
Mature groups become self-sustaining and begin to mentor newer groups. They develop leadership skills, access financial institutions independently, and become agents of change in their communities.
Program Areas
Self-Help Group Formation
Formation of new groups in underserved communities, with a focus on women who are most vulnerable to economic hardship.
Savings & Credit Activities
Facilitating regular savings, providing micro-loans, and ensuring 100% repayment rates through group solidarity.
Financial Literacy Training
Teaching members about budgeting, saving, investing, and managing personal and business finances.
Income Generation Projects
Supporting members to start and grow small businesses through loans, training, and market linkages.
Challenges & Recommendations
Challenges
- Limited access to financial institutions for larger loans
- Some groups face seasonal economic pressures
- Need for more advanced business training
- Infrastructure challenges in rural areas
Recommendations
- Strengthen partnerships with microfinance institutions
- Develop group savings products for seasonal needs
- Expand advanced business training programs
- Invest in digital literacy for SHG members
Conclusion
The 2025 Annual SHG Report demonstrates the transformative power of community-based economic empowerment. With 148 Self-Help Groups, over 3,600 members, and more than 1 billion BIF in savings, the SHG program has become a cornerstone of FWA's mission to empower women and girls across Burundi.
The impact stories of Anitha, Gloriose, and groups like DUSHIGIKIRANE show that when women are given the tools, training, and support they need, they can break the cycle of poverty and build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.
Looking ahead to 2026, FWA aims to expand the SHG program to reach 200 groups and 5,000 members, with increased focus on advanced business skills development, financial institution linkages, and digital literacy.