The project will have the overall objective to alleviate poverty in Myanmar through maximising the role of women in rural development. This will be achieved through the facilitation of the formation of Women Groups (WGs) that are able to mobilise resources to support village development works, and by increasing their capacity to have increased participation in village level decision making processes. The WGs will also be supported in networking with government, village and township authorities, by taking training in leadership, networking, and proposal writing skills. Secondly the project will focus on empowering women to obtain improved and sustainable socio-economic livelihoods.Based on the assessment done in the project area?s women groups following the pilot phase, it was evident that women members understand the importance of the group and how the savings and credit scheme can support to improve their livelihoods. The groups want more intensive facilitation and support in the areas of management, book keeping, entrepreneurship skills, linking with other actors - basically to connect to markets and legalising the women?s groups. Expected results are:? Women?s Groups are able to mobilise resources to support village development works and have increased participation in village level decision-making process.? Women increase skills and knowledge in village development decisions-making and activities.? Villagers knowledge increased on women rights.Rights-holders /beneficiaries: 18 Women's Groups with 360 women members, as well as the families of the women: children, youth, elderly. Implementing partner:Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Myanmar has been working in Myanmar since 2008 in responding to Cyclone Nargis in the Ayeyarwaddy Delta. LWF Myanmar works effectively with local authorities and civil society organisations. Work at the grassroots with partner households and interest groups and the VDCs (Village Development Committees) in where the majority of LWF Myanmar time and resources are spent.