Highlights Norad 2020–2024 with Civil Society

Driving change in a world of crisis

Across 17 countries, lives are being transformed, led by local communities, faith actors, and civil society champions. With support from Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), women are claiming their space in decision-making, youth are leading peacebuilding efforts, and communities are finding new ways to lift themselves out of poverty.

Text: Anette Torjusen
Photo: Håvard Bjelland

«Justice never goes out of style, and even though it may be hard to see right now, the world is still connected.»

Anne Cecilie Kaltenborn, Secretary General, Norwegian Church Aid

NCA and partners are driving change in a world of crisis

In a time of global uncertainty, NCA and its partners are proving that hope and justice still matter. By mobilizing faith leaders, empowering youth and women, and fostering dialogue, they’re transforming communities,from Ethiopia to Gaza. The results speak for themselves: resilient communities shaping their own futures with courage and conviction.

The results from 2020–2024 are more than numbers, they’re stories of resilience, innovation, and hope.

Clean water, lasting impact

Through its climate-resilient WASH program, Norwegian Church Aid provides clean water, safe sanitation, and hygiene to vulnerable communities—helping hundreds of thousands live healthier, safer, and more dignified lives. This work protects health, empowers women, and builds resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Gimja, the water watch

When the village of Woset set out to bring water from the mountains, everyone pitched in. For over six months, they carried stones and pipes up steep slopes over 3,000 meters high. Among them was Gimja Kassa, who now serves as the village’s water guardian.

“It was hard work,” she says. “But we had no choice if we wanted water.”

Before the pipeline, villagers—especially girls—walked long distances for water, risking violence and missing school. Now, thanks to the new system, water flows to the school and homes, reducing dropouts and improving safety.

Gimja helps maintain the system, disinfecting the water twice a year and ensuring fair access for all.

From 2020-2024 49,051 small-scale producers and service providers significantly increased their income.

Two women in Burkina Faso in our GBV-program wearing a hijab

From 2020-2024, NCA has, through its partnership with Norad, made significant strides in preventing and responding to gender-based violence across multiple countries. By engaging faith and traditional leaders, NCA has helped shift harmful social norms and promote positive masculinities. Survivors, especially women and girls, have gained access to life-saving support services. Legal frameworks have been strengthened, and communities are now better equipped to protect vulnerable groups and advocate for justice.

Ruth’s strength in Samfya
In Samfya, Zambia, Ruth Nayamg faces heartbreaking cases of gender-based violence, children and women deeply harmed. But instead of giving in to despair, she focuses on healing.

“When we started, I couldn’t stop crying,” Ruth says. “Now I see lives being rebuilt.”

Thanks to Norwegian Church Aid, survivors now receive medical, legal, and emotional support in one place. Ruth has seen change, not just in the victims, but in the community. Silence is turning into action.

Fighting Inequality through accountability

To reduce economic inequality, Norwegian Church Aid and its partners advocate for fair taxation, debt justice, and stronger public services. By mobilising communities, engaging media, and influencing power holders, they’re holding governments accountable and ensuring that all citizens can access their rights and social protection. Across countries, their efforts are driving real change, even in complex political landscapes.

A great win - assuring health care to millions

In Tanzania, NCA and faith-based partners played a key role in advocating for the Universal Health Insurance Bill. In 2016, millions lacked access to healthcare. By 2024, the bill was passed, guaranteeing affordable, essential health services for all, especially the 15+ million in rural and underserved areas. This landmark law is set to improve health, reduce poverty, and boost economic growth.

From 2020-2024 123,898 Women and adolescents accessed comprehensive sexuality education and modern family planning.

Youth leading change in Juba

At the NCA-supported center in Juba, young people are at the forefront of efforts to prevent child marriage, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence. Among them are Thomas Michael (16) and Helen Poni (18), youth ambassadors who actively raise awareness in the refugee camp where they live.

“I’ve learned a lot about my own attitudes,” says Thomas. “I used to treat girls poorly because I didn’t understand boundaries. Now I speak up when I see injustice and encourage other boys to show respect.”

Helen focuses on educating peers about the dangers of early marriage and the importance of leaving abusive relationships. “Many here face emotional violence and stress. I want to help people understand how to cope and protect themselves,” she explains.

Through dialogue, education, and personal example, these youth are helping shift harmful norms and build safer communities.