backed by A DECADE OF research
Since the beginning, Johns Hopkins University has worked hand-in-hand with PFP Congo’s local team to design and conduct a randomized controlled trial, to test the effectiveness of the program over time. Positive findings support the validity for large-scale implementation of sustainable, community-led livestock economic programs.
Improved mental health outcomes
In addition to increasing household wealth and status among participating families, results showed a positive effect on mental health symptoms, thus improving health in areas where women and families have extremely limited access to quality health and social services. Although not statistically significant, we found a reduction in intimate partner violence in participating households. This reduction demonstrates the potential of Congolese-led programs to improve relationships in the household between partners/spouse and reduce the impact of witnessing parental violence as a child.
At 18 months study participants reported:
gREATER IMPROVEMENT IN SYMPTOMS OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
Greater improvement in subjective health
Greater reduction in symptoms of anxiety
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
Economic interventions like PFP implemented in conflict-affected rural areas empower families to overcome the lack of income opportunities and access to credit, as well as limited health and social support infrastructure. These challenges make it essential to engage with communities in developing locally-appropriate interventions that address the complex and inter-related economic, health, and social conditions rural families face in order to achieve lasting improvements and progress.
participants reported:
fewer unpaid credit or loans
When asked about their experience in the program, one youth explained:
"It helps me with a lot of things— not going to bed hungry, being able to return to school, purchase clothes, and not wandering in the streets because I don’t have anything else to do."
impact of engaging youth
When compared to the control group (no rabbit in PFP family), adolescents in the program showed:
Improved communal social behaviors
Missed fewer days from school
Improved food security
Improved economic capacity
These findings reinforce the value of engaging youth in community-led sustainable development initiatives. Adolescent youth that participate learn new skills, gain confidence, and develop capacities that will positively contribute to sustained health, economic, and social impact for themselves, but also benefits their families and communities over time.
Download Research Paper (PDF) | “Comparative effectiveness of an economic empowerment program on adolescent economic assets, education and health in a humanitarian setting.”
For questions related to the research study, please contact Dr. Nancy Glass.