





Training Participants
MSME Completed capacity building
Dialogue sessions convened
CSOs Strengthened
About The PYWIEG Project
Democracy Works Foundation (DWF) and Federation of Women Lawyers Lesotho (FIDA Lesotho) are implementing a 3-and-a-half-year project called “Putting Youth and Women at the Centre of Inclusive Economic Growth (PYWIEG)” with funding from the European Union Delegation in Lesotho. The 42-month initiative aims to advance and strengthen the socio-economic empowerment of women and youth in Lesotho.
The PYWIEG project will be implemented in the Butha Buthe, Leribe, and Maseru districts.

PYWIEG Overview
Various stakeholders are involved in the PYWIEG project to strengthen the socio-economic development and employability of youth and women in Lesotho. These are:
Government
Ministries
Government departments within specific ministries, such as the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Business Development, strive to engage women and youth in participatory governance within an inclusive local government framework. For example, departments like the Marketing Department focus on issues such as gender equality through gender mainstreaming, an approach aimed at achieving gender equality.
Business Development Service Providers
These service providers aim to support women and youth, but their programs aren't tailored to their specific needs. Through this project, the BDS Providers are able to develop sensitive programming to offer effective and sustainable enterprise support for these groups.
Civil Society
Organisations
CSOs are crucial in amplifying citizens' voices. However, their efforts and impact are limited by skill gaps, capacity issues, and other challenges. To achieve full functionality and greater impact, it is essential to address these knowledge and skill deficiencies, as seen in Participatory Action Research.
Small Micro Medium Enterprises
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are vital for growth and increasing GDP by generating jobs. However, they face challenges due to skill gaps, capacity limitations, and operational hurdles. Bridging these gaps is essential to harness their full potential and enhance their impact.
PYWIEG Objectives
The objective for the PYWIEG project is to strengthen socio-economic development and employability of youth and women in Lesotho. This is achieved by increasing Youth and Women-led participation in the MSME ecosystem through
- Supporting Civil Society Organisations that promote youth participation and empowerment at district and national level.
- Strengthen Women CSOs capacities for engagement and participation in decision-making processes.
