Multifaceted Programs Targeting Women in Fragile Settings Evidence from the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

We study the impact of a multifaceted program for ultra-poor women in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. We cross-randomized the primary treatment–a holistic set of services and financial support–with a 16-week men’s engagement program (MEP) for spouses and male household members. The core treatment has large effects on consumption, employment and finances, women’s empowerment, and health, with most effects still significant two years after the program start. We find heterogeneous effects on intimate partner violence, which decreased for women at high risk of violence but increased for women at low risk. The MEP yields no lasting additional impacts.

Keywords: Poverty, women's empowerment, Financial Inclusion, fragile and conflict-affected areas