Author: Fatimata Kone

A new generation on the move: ROPPA shapes tomorrow’s agricultural leaders

08 December in News by Fatimata Kone

In the vibrant heart of Cotonou, a city steeped in the history and culture of West Africa, an event of critical importance is unfolding. Since December 6th, fifteen youths, brimming with hope and determination from across the region, have gathered for a common mission: to forge their future as leaders in the agricultural sector. They are the participants of the first session of the inaugural cohort of the Young Leaders Incubation Program (PIJeL), a bold initiative by the Network of Peasant Organizations and Agricultural Producers (ROPPA). The PIJeL, developed and implemented with the technical and financial support of the Andreas...

Cotonou, epicenter of agroforestry, pastoral, and fishery innovation

07 December in News by Fatimata Kone

The Regional Fair on SANAD Policy Knowledge, organized by CEI PREGEC, opened its doors on December 6, 2023, at the Mavilla Hotel in Cotonou, Benin, marking a decisive turning point in the valorization of agroforestry, pastoral, and fishery knowledge and practices. This unique platform, supported by the Project for the Improvement of Governance of Resilience in Food Security and Nutrition and Sustainable Agriculture in West Africa (PAGR-SANAD) and co-financed by the European Union, symbolizes a significant advancement in the governance of Food Security and Nutrition (SAN) and agricultural policies in West Africa. The event, which lasts until December 8, brings...

Charting an inclusive path for west African rice sustainability: CRCOPR’s pivotal role in food sovereignty

06 December in News by Fatimata Kone

The 6th Ordinary General Assembly of the Regional Framework for Rice Producer Organizations Consultation (CRCOPR) of the Network of Peasant Organizations and Agricultural Producers of West Africa (ROPPA) kicked off energetically this Wednesday, December 6, 2023, in Bamako, Mali. This significant event brings together delegates from ten West African nations, merging their strengths and ideas around a common cause: the sustainability of the rice sector in West Africa amidst a tapestry of crises. This pivotal gathering, supported by the National Directorate of Agriculture of Mali and committed partners such as IFRIZ, CIFAM, CNOP, PNPR-M, SOS Faim, Humundi, and Rikolto, is...

Sharing knowledge, cultures of resilience: The SANAD fair unites key actors from West Africa

05 December in News by Fatimata Kone

The Regional Fair for Knowledge on SANAD Policies (food and nutritional security and sustainable agriculture) marks an important step in the valorization and sharing of knowledge in the field of food security and sustainable agriculture in West Africa. This event, scheduled from December 6 to 8, 2023, in Benin, is the result of a collaboration between several West African regional institutions and organizations involved in the framework for monitoring the Charter for the Prevention and Management of Food Crises (PREGEC). It represents a crucial initiative for improving governance in resilience, food and nutritional security, as well as sustainable agriculture in...

Dinderesso classified forest: a shining model of harmony and sustainability in agroforestry

04 December in News by Fatimata Kone

At the heart of our 29th issue of " Gems of Family Farms" lies the shining example of the Dinderesso Classified Forest, an innovative and inclusive forest management model in Burkina Faso. This 8,500-hectare forest demonstrates how regulated exploitation can effectively resolve conflicts between herders, agroforesters, and forest rangers, while preserving the natural wealth and traditions of local communities. Once a stage for tensions due to unregulated resource use, the Dinderesso Forest has undergone a remarkable transformation. Thanks to a participatory management approach initiated in 2012, the forest has been divided into distinct zones dedicated to biodiversity, silvopastoral exploitation, and...

Green innovation in Mali: Towards a sustainable agricultural future

29 November in News by Fatimata Kone

In the heart of West Africa, Mali, some country rich in agricultural traditions, recently witnessed a revolutionary event in its agricultural sector. On November 28, 2023, the National Coordination of Farmers' Organizations of Mali (CNOP Mali), in collaboration with UNCPM, organized a sharing and visibility workshop at the Olympe Hotel in Bamako. This pivotal event aimed to launch the project "Improvement of Peasant Vegetable Seed Production through Research and Innovation in Agroecological Practices in Mali." The workshop brought together a diverse array of key players, including the Rural Economy Institute (IER), the National Directorate of Agriculture (DNA), the European Union (EU),...

The art of mowing and conserving fodder for the autonomy of agropastoralists

27 November in News by Fatimata Kone

In a world where environmental challenges intersect with the imperatives of productivity and social peace, an ancestral technique is reborn, adorned with innovative virtues, and presents itself as a model for contemporary agropastoralism. In our 28th edition of " Gems of Family Farms ", we delve into the practice of mowing and conserving natural fodder. This method, far from being a mere return to the roots, proves to be a pragmatic and sustainable response to the complex issues faced by rural communities. The initiative, led by the Association Neb La Naam de Kouila in Burkina Faso, came to fruition through...

Senegalese youth demand agrarian reform to secure their future

25 November in News by Fatimata Kone

In the golden sands of Senegal, a wind of change blows over the vast agroforestry and fisheries lands - a traditionally revered yet fragile sector. The future of the youth hangs in the balance of aging legislation that struggles to guarantee the stability of their jobs. With this concern in mind, the National College of Youth of the National Council for Rural Consultation and Cooperation (CNCR) convened the voices of hope and progress in Thiès. On October 24th, a unique gathering took place. United by a common desire for reform, the young farmers of the CNCR joined forces and voices...

Towards an equitable future: revolutionizing the financing of family farming in Burkina Faso

22 November in News by Fatimata Kone

In the heart of the vast expanses and rolling hills of Burkina Faso, family agriculture, crucial for both men and women, stands as an indispensable pillar for the country's progress and food security. However, despite its vital importance, it faces major challenges, particularly regarding access to crucial funding for its modernization and development. In this context, the Confédération Paysanne du Faso (CPF), supported by SOS FAIM, initiated a key meeting in Bobo Dioulasso on November 21 and 22, 2023. This forum aimed to develop an innovative peasant approach for access to financing for family farms, focusing on inclusive governance of...

Beyond borders: The peace caravan weaves bonds of unity

13 November in News by Fatimata Kone

In an era where tensions and security crises seem never to abate, a ray of light crosses borders, uniting hearts and minds: the "Transborder Peace Caravan." Initiated by the Youth Association for the Development of the Sahel (AJDS) in 2017, this caravan traversed border communities of Burkina Faso and Niger, bringing hope and renewal to regions thirsty for peace and unity. Facing an unprecedented security crisis, with more than 1.8 million displaced people and thousands of schools closed, the Peace Caravan is more than just an initiative; it is a symbol of resilience and humanity. Each year, artists, youth, women,...