Myanmar
We train women in entrepreneurship and support their joint businesses and production groups. Additionally, we support women in influencing decision-making at the local level.
Myanmar is one of the world’s poorest countries. Approximately a quarter of its population lives below the poverty threshold, and 65 percent live from agriculture.
There are over hundred ethnic groups living in Myanmar that are being persecuted. The long conflict has destroyed the tradition of entrepreneurship and weakened the position of women.
Women’s Bank started work in the country 2014. The work is focused on strengthening women’s livelihoods through saving and loan groups. Our activities include training women in basic entrepreneurial skills and providing leadership training.
In 2024: 556 women improved their livelihoods
Rural areas in Myanmar are extremely poor, and the political situation has remained unstable since the military coup in 2021. Despite this, our work continues in the states of Kayin and Kachin, where we support women in 20 villages.
Savings and loan groups as well as cooperatives founded by women are crucial for securing their livelihoods.
One of the biggest successes is that women have taken on a more active role in local decision-making bodies — a clear sign of their growing empowerment.
Results from last year:
- 300 women are members of savings and loan groups.
- 350 women participated in vocational and entrepreneurship training.
- Of 197 businesses, 157 were newly established last year.
- 3,600 family members now live more securely.
Opening image: Daw Thein Kywe, 49, who lives on Myanmar’s western coast in Rakhine State, has started a soap business with support from Women’s Bank. She is also the auditor of a women’s savings and loan group. Photo: Arkhee, Matchless Production