Scaling with Partners

Building a movement through strategic partnerships to reach 30,000 widows by 2030

Our Vision

Goal: Reach 30,000 widows by 2030 through direct and partnership implementation of Voice of Change

Africa Widows Rising (AWR) is a new brand from Nyanam Widows Rising. We are the same legal organization (Nyanam International in Kenya) with 501c3 in the US (Friends of Nyanam International). Our vision and mission remains the same. Our workstream has expanded to include implementation of our unique model Voice of Change with local partners.

AWR will scale her impact and NOT the organization as our purpose is to reach widows in multiple regions while reducing cost per widow, ensuring long term local ownership and importantly, creating a movement rather than a dependency on a single organization.

Voice of Change Partners

This is AWR's strategic growth engine, enabling expansion beyond direct implementation by equipping partner organizations to replicate and sustain Voice of Change implementation locally using a 3-Year Partner Capacity Model.

Partner Selection

Organizations able to mobilize 1,000 widows and commit to the Invite-Prepare-Transform model.

Co-funding for Sustainability

AWR leads training (Years 1-3) while building partner fundraising skills.

Year 4 Transition

Partners assume full funding locally; AWR provides technical assistance and M&E. Graduating widows form SACCOs led by partners to ensure long-term financial resilience and group cohesion.

Movement Building

This workstream turns AWR into a regional movement builder, creating a network of empowered partners capable of scaling widow empowerment across Africa.

Partner Selection Criteria

We believe in the power of partnership to create lasting change. Our selection process ensures we work with organizations who share our vision and have the capacity to create meaningful impact.

Basic Eligibility

✓Registered organization with proven community presence
✓Minimum of 2 years operation in widow support
✓Strong governance and financial management systems
✓Commitment to gender equality and widow empowerment

Geographic Alignment

✓Operating in regions where AWR has presence or plans expansion
✓Ability to reach rural and underserved communities
✓Strong local networks and community relationships
✓Understanding of local cultural context and widow challenges

Grantmaking Lens Alignment

✓Alignment with AWR's Voice of Change model
✓Focus on sustainable, community-driven solutions
✓Commitment to measurement and learning
✓Willingness to participate in collaborative impact assessment

Organizational Alignment

✓Shared vision and values with AWR
✓Capacity to mobilize 1,000+ widows
✓Strong leadership team with relevant experience
✓Commitment to 3-year partnership model

Partner Three-Year Training and Certification Pipeline

A structured 3-year training program that builds partner capacity to independently implement and sustain Voice of Change in their communities, with AWR providing technical support and quality assurance throughout.

SACCO Formation for Post-Graduation Sustainability

Upon completing the training cycle, the widows organized under each partner form a Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO):

•Created and managed at the partner level
•Ensures continued economic resilience, group cohesion, and social support
•Strengthens long-term empowerment beyond the training timeline
•Serves as a platform for ongoing transformation, micro-enterprise, and local advocacy
•AWR and partners collaborate to strengthen SACCO governance and ensure compliance with local regulations

Co-Funding Model and Sustainability Plan

Africa Widows Rising Contributions

Partner Co-Funding Model

Year 4 Onward

AWR Role After Year 3

Current Partners

Together, we're creating lasting change. Our partners share our commitment to empowering widows and transforming communities through compassion and dignity.

Take Action

Join us in creating lasting change for widows across Africa. Your support helps us scale our impact and empower more communities.