The Roof Over Our Heads (ROOH) is one of the Five wants that the women leaders from federations across SDI countries in Asia and Africa identified during fortnightly conversations. These conversations started on the virtual platforms during COVID and the resulting lockdowns across the globe. Casual conversations among women to check on each other’s health, provide solidarity and emotional support as a network slowly began producing reflections, that resulted in their identifying five priority areas which they called “What Women Want” They decided that they will eventually develop a campaign for each of these areas.

‘A roof over our heads’ is an expression of security, as the women’s network say. Poor people’s roofs are made from materials and reused objects initially but later as they are able to afford and have a sense of security, further investments are made in using roofing materials that are more durable. With climate change and the resulting intensification of extreme climate events involving heat, wind, rain and cyclones and natural and man-made disasters like earthquakes, floods, fires and evictions, older techniques and materials are unable to be fully functional in providing security.

Therefore the women from SDI across Asia and Africa resolved to begin a campaign for a safe Roof Over Our Heads (ROOH)