Okumu Ronald, a respected member of the local council and a lead farmer of ACE Cooperative in his community, shares how his family has undergone a remarkable transformation:

“We weren’t working together as a family before. I didn’t involve my wife in decision-making, and our household lacked unity. But through the training programs of IST and WE Effect I attended, everything changed. Today, we work as a team, and I’ve learned to respect her and include her in important decisions. Our family feels like a real partnership now.

“In our leisure time, we plan together and dream of a better future. One of our goals is to buy a plot of land in town. We’ve already made the first payment, and we’re eagerly waiting to harvest our crops in January to complete the final installment. The trainings have not only helped me grow as a person but also shaped me into a role model within our community. I now speak out on family matters and seek counseling when needed. Because of this, the causes of gender-based violence in our household have significantly reduced. Decision-making is now inclusive, and our family vision is stronger than ever.”

Brenda, his wife, adds:

“Before, my husband used to spend a lot of time gambling, which caused strain in our family. However, after he received training and applied what he learned, he changed completely. People in our community now come to us for advice on how to handle family matters. We’ve become a trusted source of guidance for others.”

The couple working together to dry the maize.