Whilst the Centre is a hub of activity, a substantial part of BRDC’s work is done off site, in the community. The Community Based Training team consists of four dedicated members of staff, who are involved with Self Help Groups (or SHGs) in over 30 villages. The members of these groups are predominantly women who represent families from amongst the poorest of the poor. Meetings occur on a weekly basis and are led from within, giving responsibility and opportunities to all involved. Initially there is also weekly involvement from the Centre’s staff, but this is reduced as each group becomes more confident and autonomous. The hope is that in the future these groups will be able to stand alone and provide an example to others in their local community.

Many of the problems within the community stem from what the members contend with day after day and include such issues as inability to earn and save even a small amount of money, lack of firewood, cooking with basic and uneconomical facilities in an unhealthy environment, increasingly unproductive soil and a lack of easily obtainable clean water. Another concern is the number of young people who, because of poverty, cannot afford secondary school education or even the subsidised training offered at Bungokho Rural Development Centre. With nothing to do, they become involved in undesirable activities.  

In response to the above expressed needs, group members and some of the young people are introduced to new ideas, knowledge and skills that give members hope and enable them and their families improve their lifestyle and move away from the poverty trap. Information of these BRDC assisted activities can be found through the links below.

• Community Skills Training

• Finance

• Well Project