What We've Done So Far
Leni Keller Workshops in Uyo and Oron
In 2025, we were once again able to successfully train a group of 53 graduates. The participants attended in-depth “masterclasses” to expand their knowledge in various areas of craftsmanship, including tailoring, the production of accessories, jewelry, and hairpieces, hair care, and shoe production.
To promote their economic independence, the graduates received starter kits to support their small businesses. In addition, they were granted access to the machines at the Leni Keller Workshop to facilitate production.
80% of the graduates received starter kits, while 20% received seed capital to implement their own business ideas.
25% of the graduates use the Leni Keller workshops for their own production, while the rest offer their services directly on the open market.
Formation of Cooperatives
With our support, a total of seven agricultural cooperatives were established, including five women’s cooperatives and two men’s cooperatives. Each cooperative comprises about 20 members, including residents of the host communities. The cooperatives were equipped with leased land, seeds, agricultural tools, and cassava and palm kernel processing machines.
“Circular Economy” Project
A new project titled “Circular Economy” was launched and funded through the Schmitz Foundation’s small-project grants. The goal was to explore how agricultural waste—particularly banana stems—could be transformed into valuable products. The project successfully demonstrated how fibers can be extracted from banana stems and how these fibers can be used to make useful products, such as baskets. At the same time, agricultural activities—such as chicken farming—were carried out in collaboration with the refugee cooperatives as part of this project. The project offers opportunities and benefits to refugees, members of the host communities, and the environment alike.
ASA Project
Together with our Cameroonian partner TeenAlive, we carried out a student exchange project on mental health as part of Engagement Global’s ASA program.
Support for Advocacy Activities
We supported our partner organizations in organizing important events, including:
World Refugee Day
World Mental Health Day
Campaigns against gender-based violence
Of particular note is the recognition of our partner, the Max Kuma Community Development Foundation, which was entrusted with administrative responsibility for the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) One-Stop Shop in Uyo. This center supports refugees in developing their skills and promotes their integration into the host communities.