In Musanze district, the Belgium funded Urban Economic Development initiative UEDi implemented by Enabel has been a catalyst for change.
The inspiring story of Pauline Hagenimana is an example of women's empowerment. Pauline's journey into the world of carpentry, a domain traditionally dominated by men, showcases the transformative potential of vocational training.

With an impressive 86.1% employment rate among dual training graduates, the project highlights gender equality and economic independence. The gender dynamics within this framework are particularly revealing, 61.47% of employed female carpentry graduates compared to 38.26% of their male counterparts, challenging the traditional employment narrative.

Pauline's success story is not just her own but a reflection of the broader impact of the UEDi project. After completing dual training program, Pauline demonstrated an impressive ability to use acquired skills by establishing a bench work at her home where she often produces wooden furnitures.  Pauline’s ability to support her family's education and improve their living standards after completing her training in Carpentry is a testament to the empowerment that comes with skills acquisition.
"In our family, we are five children, and now I do help in paying my siblings' school fees just after I completed the training in Carpentry. Even the sitting room furniture we never had before at home, I made it myself," Pauline shares, highlighting the direct benefits of her vocational training.

The ripple effects of her achievements are palpable within her community, inspiring other women and girls to pursue their dreams and challenge the confines of traditional gender roles. This shift is crucial not only for individual women but also for the socio-economic development of the Musanze district and beyond. The UEDi project's focus on vocational training emerges as a sustainable pathway to gender equality, reducing poverty and fostering inclusive economic growth.

Pauline Hagenimana's story, enriched by the success of the UEDi project, serves as a powerful call to action for continued investment in women's vocational training. It highlights the role of education and empowerment in changing lives, shaping communities and building resilient & prosperous societies. Through dedicated efforts to support and expand such initiatives, the future holds the promise of further breaking down barriers to gender equality and enabling more women like Pauline to transform their lives and communities.