Story from Jendouba: Women’s Leadership: The Rise of GDA Al-Hamdya

In the hills of Tabarka, Moufida Eloui, 52, joined a newly formed women’s agricultural group, Al-Hamdya, seeking a more active role in the economic and social life of her community. Divorced and carrying significant family responsibilities, she found a space where she can have a stronger voice and greater control over her future.

When the group was established, members began working with Ali Slaïmi, a retired agronomist, and were introduced to the Gender Action Learning System (GALS). Through a series of participatory sessions, the women reflected on their aspirations, identified their individual strengths and developed a shared vision for the group's future.

Over time, communication has improved. The women began to listen more actively, exchange ideas, debate constructively, and make decisions together with greater confidence and structure.

Work organization also changed. Activities and tasks became planned in advance, with clear responsibilities assigned to each member. Moufida, who initially remained in the background, gradually gained confidence to speak, share ideas, and participate in decisions related to production, planning, and group management.

Before, she believed her opinion had little value. Today, she recognizes her role within the group and contributes actively to shape its direction. Al-Hamdya evolved into a more coordinated and supportive structure, where women work together, support each other, and share responsibility for economic activities and collective results.

The impact extends beyond the group itself. The skills and confidence gained are reflected in family and community life. Women participate more in household decisions, manage responsibilities differently, and report greater recognition within their social environment and local networks.

Moufida’s experience shows how collective organization and structured learning spaces can shift individual perceptions and strengthen agency. It highlights how women, when given space to learn, plan, and organize, can move from isolation to cooperation, and from silence to active participation in economic and social decision-making processes, while building stronger and more resilient rural communities across generations.