The Women Empowerment Agenda Women Empowerment The Women Empwerment Agenda Women’s empowerment is a central pillar of inclusive and sustainable development (United Nations, 2015; UN Women, 2023). It goes beyond participation to address women’s ability to exercise agency, access opportunities, influence decision-making, and shape the social, economic, and political systems that affect their lives. Across the Global South, empowering women has proven to be one of the most effective pathways to reducing poverty, strengthening institutions, and promoting equitable growth. At Bodmando Consulting Group, women’s empowerment is viewed not as a standalone issue but as a cross-cutting development priority that underpins effective policy design, program implementation, and evaluation. When women are empowered, entire communities benefit. Women Empowerment What Does Women’s Empowerment Mean? Women’s empowerment is a multidimensional process that enables women to gain control over their lives and claim their rights. It includes the ability to make strategic life choices, access and control resources, and participate meaningfully in leadership and governance. Key dimensions of empowerment include: Self-worth and confidence, enabling women to recognize their value and potential. Decision-making power at household, community, and institutional levels. Access to resources and opportunities, including education, healthcare, finance, and technology. Autonomy and control, particularly over economic activities and personal wellbeing. Influence over social change, contributing to the transformation of norms and systems that perpetuate inequality. Empowerment is therefore not a one-time outcome, but a continuous process shaped by context, culture, and structural conditions (UNDP, 2022). Women Empowerment The Economic Case for Women’s Empowerment The empowerment of women is both a social justice imperative and a powerful economic strategy (World Bank, 2020; AfDB, 2021). Evidence consistently shows that when women participate fully in economic life, productivity increases, household incomes rise, and national economies grow. In Africa and other regions of the Global South, closing gender gaps in employment and entrepreneurship has the potential to generate millions of jobs and significantly increase GDP. Women reinvest a large proportion of their income into their families and communities, improving outcomes in education, nutrition, and health. Gender-diverse leadership has also been linked to stronger organizational performance, better decision-making, and improved governance (McKinsey & Company, 2020). Ignoring women’s economic potential not only perpetuates inequality but also limits development progress. Women Empowerment Persistent Barriers to Women’s Empowerment Despite global commitments, women continue to face significant barriers that limit their empowerment, including structural, legal, and socio-cultural constraints (UN Women, 2023; ILO, 2021). These include discriminatory laws and policies, restrictive social norms, unequal access to education and financial services, and limited representation in leadership and decision-making spaces. Women also shoulder a disproportionate burden of unpaid care work, which restricts their time and economic opportunities. Gender-based violence and insecurity further undermine women’s agency and participation. In many contexts, digital exclusion and limited access to technology are emerging barriers in an increasingly digital economy. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated, long-term, and context-sensitive interventions. Women Empowerment Bodmando’s Approach to Women’s Empowerment Bodmando Consulting Group integrates women’s empowerment across its work in monitoring, evaluation, learning, policy and strategy design, institutional strengthening, and capacity development. Our approach emphasizes evidence-based programming, participatory methods, and context-specific solutions that amplify women’s voices and leadership. By embedding gender analysis and empowerment principles into development initiatives, we support partners to design programs that are equitable, effective, and sustainable. Women Empowerment Conclusion Women’s empowerment is not optional, it is a development imperative. Empowered women drive social transformation, economic growth, and resilient institutions. Achieving gender equality requires sustained commitment, inclusive policies, and intentional investment in women’s potential. As the global development community works toward a more just and inclusive future, advancing the women’s empowerment agenda must remain a shared priority. When women thrive, societies prosper. Women Empowerment References United Nations. (2015). Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UN Women. (2023). Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2022). Women’s Economic Empowerment as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development. World Bank. (2020). Gender Equality and Development. International Labour Organization (ILO). (2021). Women in Leadership and Decision-Making. McKinsey & Company. (2020). Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters. African Development Bank (AfDB). (2021). Gender Equality Index for Africa. Bodmando Consulting Group. (2024). Gender and Inclusive Development Practice Framework.

BHA Funded Integrated Multisectoral Assistance Project in Borno state, Nigeria End-line Evaluation of the USAID/BHA-Funded Integrated Multisectoral Assistance for Conflict-Affected Vulnerable Populations in Greater Maiduguri Client Name Save the Children Country Nigeria Technical Area Multisectoral Year 2024 CASE STUDY-IMA-BHA-Et-2024 What was the client’s problem? The Integrated Multisectoral Assistance for Conflict-Affected Vulnerable Populations in Greater Maiduguri Project aimed to alleviate suffering, uphold human dignity, and save the lives of men, women, girls, boys under five years (U5), and Pregnant and Lactating Women/Girls (PWL/Gs) in MMC and Jere LGAs, Borno State. The purpose of this end-line assessment was to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of Save the Children’s Integrated Multisectoral Assistance for Conflict-Affected Vulnerable Populations in Greater Maiduguri Project. The specific objectives of the evaluation were: Assess the program’s progress toward achieving its intended outcomes and objectives. Evaluate the program’s impact on household food security, child protection, WASH, shelter, and nutrition status. Assess the effectiveness of the program’s components, including food assistance, nutrition interventions, child protection, water, sanitation, and hygiene activities. Generate end-line data for a set of indicators outlined in the project M&E plan/ITT for comparison with the baseline data to measure the program’s progress against the log frame indicators. Document lessons learned from project implementation. Provide recommendations for program improvement and future interventions. Explore unintended outcomes of project activities or successes. CASE STUDY-IMA-BHA-Et-2024 What Approach and Methodology did Bodmando Undertake? The evaluation utilized mixed methods and relied on both primary and secondary data sources to gather information. The data collection methods used at baseline, including the tools and sample sizes, were replicated for comparability of findings, and PDM (Post-Distribution Monitoring) data was also considered. The Bodmando consultants conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of existing project documents, carried out 24 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), 15 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and surveyed 1,267 participants sampled across the various thematic areas. The evaluation was inclusive, considering cross-cutting issues such as gender, age, disability, and other vulnerability considerations, as well as the sensitivity of social norms and practices. It followed a participatory and consultative approach, incorporating a child-centered approach, an intersectional approach, and the OECD DAC criteria. CASE STUDY-IMA-BHA-Et-2024 What value did bodmando unlock? Bodmando’s evaluation unlocked critical value by providing a comprehensive and reliable assessment of the program’s impact, progress, and effectiveness across food security, child protection, WASH, shelter, and nutrition sectors. By replicating baseline methods and incorporating diverse perspectives including gender, age, and disability considerations the evaluation ensured inclusivity and contextual relevance. Using a participatory approach, Bodmando not only highlighted program achievements but also identified lessons learned, unintended outcomes, and actionable recommendations for future improvement. This rigorous analysis empowered stakeholders with evidence-based insights to refine strategies, amplify successes, and drive meaningful, sustainable change for vulnerable populations in Greater Maiduguri.

Case Study of a Mid-Term Review of Uganda’s NTD Sustainability Plan Mid-Term Review of the Ugandan Ministry of Health’s NTD Sustainability Plan 2020-2025, conducted in partnership with RTI International. Client Name RTI International Country Uganda Technical Area Global Health Year 2024 CASE STUDY MTR-NTD-SP-2024 What was the client’s problem? RTI International, in support of the Ugandan Ministry of Health, contracted the services of Bodmando Consulting Group to conduct a mid-term review of the NTD Sustainability Plan 2020-2025 for the NTD control program. The objectives of the mid-term review were to: Measure progress made against each functional area as outlined in the Sustainability Plan 2020-2025. Evaluate the strategy and sustainability priority actions to determine whether they still align with the existing needs and context. Re-prioritize government approaches based on the need to fast-track the expected outputs of the sustainability plan to consolidate and accelerate the gains achieved in NTD control and elimination. The mid-term review also sought to create opportunities to review and share progress towards sustainability at national and local government levels with relevant sectors, implementing partners, and other stakeholders. CASE STUDY MTR-NTD-SP-2024 What Approach and Methodology did Bodmando Undertake? The mid-term review was conducted in a highly participatory and consultative manner through the engagement of NTD program partners, district health team representatives, the World Health Organization (WHO), and relevant line ministries, such as the Ministry of Water and Environment, among others. It employed a mixed-methods approach to triangulate information across different sources, considering both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data was generated through: An NTD stakeholder consultation workshop. 15 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Ad-hoc meetings and calls with various NTD stakeholders. Secondary data was generated from a desk review of relevant NTD indicators in the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) and other NTD program documents. An NTD programme manager at the Ugandan Ministry of Health makes his contribution during the validation workshop of findings from the mid term review of the NTD Sustainability Plan 2020-2025 for the NTD Control Programme CASE STUDY MTR-NTD-SP-2024 What value did bodmando unlock? The mid-term review provided an in-depth analysis of the progress made within each functional area of the NTD Sustainability Plan 2020–2025. By evaluating the implementation strategies and priority actions, the review identified key challenges and gaps in service delivery, operational capacity, and coordination. Furthermore, it offered insights into lessons learned and provided actionable recommendations tailored to address these gaps. These recommendations helped re-align the program’s focus, ensuring that the control and elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) remain on track. As a result, the review significantly contributed to Uganda’s ongoing efforts to reduce the burden of NTDs, while reinforcing sustainable, gender-inclusive, and locally-led approaches to achieve long-term success and resilience in the fight against these diseases.

Sex and Gender Based Analysis for Adolescent Health and Nutrition (AHN) Programs Sex and Gender-Based Analysis (SGBA) of Adolescent Health and Nutrition Programs under the REACTS-IN Project in Elgeyo Marakwet, conducted by Bodmando Consulting Group for Nutrition International in Kenya Client Name Nutrition International Country Kenya Technical Area Global Health Year 2024 CASE STUDY SGBA-AHN-EMC-2024 What was the client’s problem? To follow a gender mainstreaming process in the REACTS-IN project, Nutrition International in Kenya contracted Bodmando Consulting Group to conduct a Sex and Gender Based Analysis (SGBA) of Adolescent Health and Nutrition (AHN) programs, to reflect on how the project could better promote gender equality and respond to gender barriers and any potential enablers in Elgeyo Marakwet for the adolescent nutrition program. The specific objectives included the following. Assess the gender equality issues relevant to Adolescent Health and Nutrition in Elgeyo Marakwet. These included socio-economic status, access to nutrition, vulnerabilities to malnutrition, potential to participate, etc. Identify and explain gender barriers, lessons, key entry points that worked well in the Adolescent Health and Nutrition programs. Assess Nutrition International’s current outcomes and outputs and indicators in the joint nutrition financing project and REACTS-IN design and suggest opportunities to be more gender sensitive and responsive as applicable. Identify potential opportunities and enablers and provide recommendations for developing short- and long-term strategies that would promote gender equality and girls’ and women’s empowerment through the programs. CASE STUDY SGBA-AHN-EMC-2024 What Approach and Methodology did Bodmando Undertake? The research involved a cross-sectional design and relied on both primary and secondary data sources to gather information. Primary data were generated by conducting Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), school observation and review, health facility observation and review, content and curriculum review guided by Gender Equality and Adolescent Well-being frameworks. Secondary data were generated from a desk review of relevant internal and external documents. The Sex and Gender Based Analysis for Adolescent Health and Nutrition (AHN) Programs in Elgeyo Marakwet County was guided by the gender equality and women and girls’ empowerment framework (Gender Analysis Matrix), Adolescent Wellbeing Framework, human rights-based approach, and the social ecological framework. CASE STUDY SGBA-AHN-EMC-2024 What value did bodmando unlock? The Sex and Gender Based Analysis (SGBA) provided a comprehensive understanding of the gender barriers and enablers within the Adolescent Health and Nutrition (AHN) programs in Elgeyo Marakwet County. By conducting in-depth assessments of gender equality issues such as socio-economic status, access to nutrition, and vulnerabilities, the study offered actionable insights on how to enhance the program’s gender responsiveness. The analysis identified key entry points and provided recommendations for both short- and long-term strategies, ensuring that future interventions would better address gender inequalities and promote the empowerment of adolescent girls and women. This approach not only supported Nutrition International’s goals of improving health outcomes but also contributed to sustainable, gender-equitable advancements in nutrition and sexual and reproductive health in underserved areas of the county.

Performance Evaluation of INSO in Somalia Performance Evaluation of INSO’s Services in Somalia, conducted by Bodmando Consulting Group to assess impact, effectiveness, relevance, and coherence in supporting NGO safety and service delivery. Client Name INSO Country Somalia Technical Area Security and Information Year 2024 CASE STUDY INSO-SOMALIA-PE-2024 What was the client’s problem? INSO sought the services of Bodmando Consulting Group to carry out a performance evaluation to analyze the impact, effectiveness, relevance, and coherence of INSO’s services in Somalia. The main goals of the evaluation were to: Assess the degree to which INSO has achieved its intended objectives. Evaluate the provision of INSO services to NGO safety, considering both intended and unintended outcomes. Demonstrate accountability for funding received from BHA. Collect lessons learned on what has worked and why, including best practices and strengths. Support the appropriate adaptation of INSO services. Share lessons and recommendations from the project. CASE STUDY INSO-SOMALIA-PE-2024 What Approach and Methodology did Bodmando Undertake? The evaluation employed a cross-sectional design, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources to capture a well-rounded view of project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction. Primary data was gathered through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with representatives from national and international NGOs, providing firsthand insights from national and international organizations. Secondary data involved a desk review of relevant documents to supplement findings with established records and assessments. This combined approach allowed for a comprehensive evaluation, blending immediate stakeholder feedback with documented evidence for a thorough analysis. CASE STUDY INSO-SOMALIA-PE-2024 What value did bodmando unlock? Bodmando Consulting Group unlocked significant value for INSO by providing a detailed performance evaluation that clarified the impact and effectiveness of INSO’s services in Somalia. Through in-depth assessments, Bodmando highlighted how INSO’s initiatives have contributed to NGO safety, demonstrating accountability to funders like BHA. The evaluation offered critical insights into best practices and areas of strength, helping INSO understand what has worked well and why. Additionally, by identifying areas for service adaptation and sharing actionable recommendations, Bodmando enabled INSO to enhance the relevance and coherence of their services, ultimately strengthening INSO’s support for NGOs operating in high-risk environments.

Global Health: Advancing Equity, Systems, and Sustainable Wellbeing. Global Health What Is Global Health? Global health refers to the collective efforts, policies, systems, and research aimed at improving health outcomes and achieving health equity for populations worldwide. It recognizes that health challenges transcend national borders and require coordinated international responses. Unlike traditional public health, which often focuses on domestic population health, global health emphasizes interconnected risks, shared responsibilities, and collaborative solutions across countries and regions. The concept reflects the understanding that infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, environmental hazards, migration, economic instability, and political conflict all influence health outcomes across the globe. Global health is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing from medicine, epidemiology, economics, sociology, environmental science, political science, and development studies. It is grounded in the principle that all people, regardless of geography or income level, deserve access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to live healthy lives. The emphasis on equity distinguishes global health from other fields, as it seeks to reduce avoidable disparities in health status between and within countries (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). Global Health Why Global Health Matters? Global health matters because the wellbeing of populations is increasingly interconnected. In an era of globalization, diseases can spread rapidly through travel and trade, economic shocks can disrupt health systems, and environmental crises can affect entire regions simultaneously. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how fragile health systems can destabilize societies, disrupt economies, and strain international cooperation. It revealed that health security is a shared global concern and that underinvestment in one region can have global consequences. Beyond pandemics, rising rates of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and cancer now account for the majority of deaths worldwide, including in low- and middle-income countries (World Bank, 2022). Global health initiatives help coordinate prevention strategies, share knowledge, and mobilize resources to address these trends. Investing in health also supports economic productivity, educational attainment, and social stability. Healthy populations contribute more effectively to national development, while poor health outcomes can trap communities in cycles of poverty and inequality. Therefore, global health is not only a humanitarian concern but also a strategic investment in global development and security. Global Health Major Global Health Challenges Global health faces multiple and overlapping challenges. Infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV remain significant public health concerns in many regions. Emerging infectious diseases continue to pose threats due to urbanization, deforestation, and climate change. At the same time, non-communicable diseases are increasing rapidly due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and air pollution. According to the World Health Organization (2023), non-communicable diseases account for nearly three-quarters of global deaths. Maternal and child mortality remains unacceptably high in several countries, largely due to preventable causes such as lack of skilled birth attendance, limited access to emergency obstetric care, and inadequate neonatal services. Antimicrobial resistance is another growing concern, threatening the effectiveness of life-saving medicines. Climate change intensifies these health risks by increasing heat-related illnesses, altering the distribution of vector-borne diseases, and exacerbating food and water insecurity. These interconnected challenges require integrated and systemic responses rather than isolated interventions. Global Health Health Systems Strengthening Global health faces multiple and overlapping challenges. Infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV remain significant public health concerns in many regions. Emerging infectious diseases continue to pose threats due to urbanization, deforestation, and climate change. At the same time, non-communicable diseases are increasing rapidly due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and air pollution. According to the World Health Organization (2023), non-communicable diseases account for nearly three-quarters of global deaths. Maternal and child mortality remains unacceptably high in several countries, largely due to preventable causes such as lack of skilled birth attendance, limited access to emergency obstetric care, and inadequate neonatal services. Antimicrobial resistance is another growing concern, threatening the effectiveness of life-saving medicines. Climate change intensifies these health risks by increasing heat-related illnesses, altering the distribution of vector-borne diseases, and exacerbating food and water insecurity. These interconnected challenges require integrated and systemic responses rather than isolated interventions. Global Health Recommendations for Advancing Global Health Strengthening global health requires deliberate and coordinated action across multiple levels. First, governments should prioritize sustained investment in primary healthcare systems. Expanding access to essential services, improving infrastructure, and strengthening workforce capacity are foundational steps toward Universal Health Coverage. Domestic resource mobilization must be enhanced to reduce overreliance on external funding and ensure sustainability. Second, policymakers should adopt equity-centered approaches in health planning. This includes targeted interventions for marginalized populations, gender-responsive policies, and community-based service delivery models. Data disaggregation by gender, age, income level, and geographic location is critical to identify disparities and guide resource allocation. Third, global health governance structures should promote inclusive partnerships and local leadership. Strengthening national research institutions and empowering local experts ensures that solutions are context-specific and culturally appropriate. International cooperation should focus on knowledge sharing, transparent financing, and mutual accountability. Fourth, climate adaptation strategies must be integrated into health policies. Building climate-resilient health facilities, strengthening early warning systems, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices within the health sector are essential steps. Health impact assessments should be incorporated into environmental planning and infrastructure projects. Fifth, investment in health information systems and digital innovation should be expanded. Reliable data systems improve disease surveillance, enhance program monitoring, and support evidence-based policymaking. However, digital strategies must prioritize equitable access and data privacy protections. Finally, prevention must remain central to global health strategies. Promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening immunization programs, improving nutrition, and addressing risk factors such as tobacco use and air pollution reduce long-term disease burden and healthcare costs. Preventive approaches are cost-effective and contribute to sustainable development outcomes. Global Health The Future of Global Health The future of global health depends on resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to equity. Strengthening primary healthcare, addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, enhancing pandemic preparedness, and integrating climate resilience into health systems will remain central priorities. Community engagement and participatory governance will improve trust and accountability. Global health must continue evolving to address

Baseline Evaluation of the Bloom Project in Uganda Baseline Evaluation of the Bloom Project in Uganda, conducted by Bodmando Consulting Group for Aidsfonds, to establish key indicators, benchmark data, and assess facilitators and barriers to HIV care, treatment, and support for young mothers living with HIV and their children. Client Name Aidsfonds – Soa Aids Nederland Country Uganda Technical Area Global Health Year 2023 CASE STUDY BLOOM-UGA-BE-2023 What was the client’s problem? Aidsfonds sought the services of Bodmando Consulting Group to carry out a baseline evaluation of the Bloom project. The main goals of the baseline assessment were; To determine key baseline indicators and benchmark data and to collect general benchmark information about young mothers living with HIV and their children, the demand for and access to PMTCT/HIV treatment and care services, and the indicators formulated for the Bloom project. To provide general benchmark information on the current situation regarding existing government policy/guidelines on young mothers, uptake of (informal) health services at community and facility level, retention rates, and PMTCT/paediatric HIV care. Understand the facilitators and barriers of young mothers and their children in enrolment for eMTCT, HIV care, support and treatment services in the targeted areas. This includes analyzing PMTCT demand and uptake by young mothers living with HIV and creating an understanding of this process and its barriers. Understand the facilitators and barriers faced by young mothers living with HIV and their children in access, utilization and retention in paediatric HIV care in the targeted areas at family, community, and health facility levels. This includes the uptake of informal health services at community and health facility level and the availability of child-friendly services for children living with HIV, the availability of paediatric HIV interventions by government and any other Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). CASE STUDY BLOOM-UGA-BE-2023 What Approach and Methodology did Bodmando Undertake? The baseline evaluation adopted a comprehensive, mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods to gain a deep understaanding of the context and challenges faced by young mothers living with HIV. Key components of the approach included: To determine key baseline indicators and benchmark data and to collect general benchmark information about young mothers living with HIV and their children, the demand for and access to PMTCT/HIV treatment and care services, and the indicators formulated for the Bloom project. To provide general benchmark information on the current situation regarding existing government policy/guidelines on young mothers, uptake of (informal) health services at community and facility level, retention rates, and PMTCT/paediatric HIV care. Understand the facilitators and barriers of young mothers and their children in enrolment for eMTCT, HIV care, support and treatment services in the targeted areas. This includes analyzing PMTCT demand and uptake by young mothers living with HIV and creating an understanding of this process and its barriers. Understand the facilitators and barriers faced by young mothers living with HIV and their children in access, utilization and retention in paediatric HIV care in the targeted areas at family, community, and health facility levels. This includes the uptake of informal health services at community and health facility level and the availability of child-friendly services for children living with HIV, the availability of paediatric HIV interventions by government and any other Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). CASE STUDY BLOOM-UGA-BE-2023 What value did bodmando unlock? The baseline evaluation of the Bloom Project provided crucial insights that shaped the project’s strategic implementation. By identifying key gaps in HIV service delivery, such as inadequate youth-friendly services and poor integration with maternal and child health, the evaluation enabled targeted improvements. It addressed social and cultural barriers like stigma and gender inequality, informing community-based interventions that empower young mothers. Additionally, the evaluation established baseline data for future impact measurement, ensuring ongoing refinement and effectiveness of the Bloom Project’s interventions. Through a participatory approach, the evaluation empowered the target population, fostering trust and engagement between the project team and the community Figure showing participants in a validation workshop for the baseline evaluation findings of the Bloom HIV/AIDS project in Uganda. CASE STUDY BLOOM-UGA-BE-2023 What value did bodmando unlock? The baseline evaluation of the Bloom Project provided crucial insights that shaped the project’s strategic implementation. By identifying key gaps in HIV service delivery, such as inadequate youth-friendly services and poor integration with maternal and child health, the evaluation enabled targeted improvements. It addressed social and cultural barriers like stigma and gender inequality, informing community-based interventions that empower young mothers. Additionally, the evaluation established baseline data for future impact measurement, ensuring ongoing refinement and effectiveness of the Bloom Project’s interventions. Through a participatory approach, the evaluation empowered the target population, fostering trust and engagement between the project team and the community