External Mid-Term Evaluation: Promoting Inclusive Empowerment for Women, Girls, and Boys in Upper Egypt (2025)

The “Promoting Inclusive Empowerment for Women, Girls, and Boys in Upper Egypt” project is a collaborative initiative funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implemented by Save the Children International (SCI) in partnership with Handicap International (HI) and local organizations. Operating in the Assiut Governorate from July 2022 to June 2025, the project aims to foster the economic and social inclusion of women (aged 20-35) and youth (aged 15-24), including individuals with disabilities, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 8. Targeting 1,924 beneficiaries across Abnoub, Sahel Sleem, and Sedfa districts, it addresses structural and cultural barriers to economic participation, focusing on skills development, financial literacy, and awareness-building.

This mid-term evaluation aimed to assess the project’s progress and effectiveness, focusing on coherence, relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability. The evaluation also sought to identify challenges and recommend adjustments for the project’s remaining duration. The project demonstrated positive outcomes despite facing efficiency challenges such as inflation-related budget constraints, logistical delays, and limited accessibility for persons with disabilities. It effectively empowered women and youth, with many participants reporting increased financial independence and business success, though male youth dropout and market misalignment posed setbacks. Strong alignment with Save the Children and Handicap International’s strategies and collaboration with local CSOs enhanced coherence, although administrative delays impacted implementation. Activities were highly relevant to the socio-economic needs of target groups, especially women and youth, though cultural and structural barriers remain. Sustainability efforts like Village Savings and Loan Associations showed promise but delays in establishing production units and the need for stronger local capacity building highlight areas for improvement.