MOBILIZING
Mobilization, within the framework of Unity Upendo Community-Based Organization (CBO), involves a
strategic and collaborative endeavor to pool resources, support, and expertise to address the unique needs
and challenges faced by both the refugee community and the wider society.
Key facets of mobilization at Unity Upendo CBO include:
Resource Mobilization: Our primary goal is to identify and gather resources that can benefit our
community. Each of the 13 self-help groups makes monthly contributions, and these pooled funds are
provided as loans to members at minimal interest rates. Additionally, the CBO operates a shop, offering
members access to essential commodities at reduced prices compared to the market. We actively harness
the knowledge, skills, and expertise of our members and supporters. This involves organizing workshops,
training programs, and skill-sharing sessions, allowing individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge
for the community’s collective benefit
Community Cohesion and Unity: Mobilization efforts extend to fostering unity within the refugee
community. The CBO actively raises awareness on Gender-Based Violence, implementing initiatives like
EMAP (Engaging Men in Accountability Practices) to encourage men to protect women rather than
exploiting them. Free training programs on topics such as preventing early marriages are provided to
youths, promoting education within the refugee community. The CBO also offers free counseling to
address issues like depression and suicide among traumatized refugees.
Donations: We express gratitude to the Danis Refugee Council for providing free training to our
members. We welcome and seek additional donors and well-wishers to partner with us, offering resources
and mentorship to support our programs and meet the demands of our members.
VSLA (Village Savings & Loan Association: Access to financial resources is crucial for empowerment,
and our self-help groups contribute dedicatedly to offer loans to members. Currently, we provide loans to
members at a 3% monthly interest rate, enabling them to invest in businesses, education, and personal or
family needs. Over the years, we have reduced the interest rate from 10% to 5%, and our goal is to further
decrease it to 2%, fostering empowerment and encouraging business growth for self resilient Recognizing
the challenges faced by refugees in obtaining loans from local banks due to a lack of collateral and
refugee’s documents, we aspire to establish a microfinance institution in the future, broadening
credit facilities for refugees.