Cross Cutting Issues

MRDA programmes are designed to take account of four cross-cutting issues. They are:

• Gender:  MRDA mainstreams gender in all its policies, programmes and activities. We also ensure equitable participation of men and women in all MRDA project designs, structures and activities. In addition, we specifically implement projects that address gender based violence ( GBV).

• HIV/AIDS is mainstreamed in all MRDA’s programmes, and at the workplace. In addition, we lead a learning network on gender and HIV/AIDS ( GALN). The network is supported by KIC (Knowledge infrastructure with and between counterparts) of Oxfam Novib (ON).

• Capacity Building: MRDA includes local capacity in all its activities as a key strategy for local ownership and sustainability of projects.

• Advocacy: This has become an important component for all projects. MRDA has plans          to expand advocacy and at the moment, an advocacy planning process has began.