Limited access to economic resources of marginalized social groups makes them easy targets of exploitation by violent extremists. Through our Building Resilience Against Violent Extremism (BRAVE II) project, Social Initiative for Literacy and Development Programme (SILDEP) in the Upper West Region mobilized 750 beneficiaries from five project communities into 25 Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) groups. The communities include Kassanpuori, Katinia (Sissala East), Kupulima, Gwollu, and Fielmuo (Sissala West).

These beneficiaries, including Fulbes, refugees, and host community members, have been organized into 25 Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) groups. Through training in financial literacy, group dynamics, and leadership, participants are building the skills needed to manage resources effectively and strengthen community bonds. Each VSLA group was supported to open a bank account. This is enabling members to save collectively and access micro‑credit facilities.

Fati, a Fulbe woman Gwollu and member of a VSLA group stated ‘‘the VSLA model has shown me that even small, consistent savings could support a business dream. I now felt empowered to start a petty trading venture with the hope of expanding in the future. The training not only transformed my mindset but also strengthened trust among the participants, especially between us, the Fulbe and the host community’ The VSLA model is breaking down barriers to financial access and inspiring hope for marginalized groups who previously struggled to secure credit to now expand their opportunities and build resilience against extremist influence.