Sustainability and Resilience: Empowering Women through Organic Horticulture

Sustainability and Resilience: Empowering Women through Organic Horticulture

In the rural regions of Mali, women and girls are subject to strongly patriarchal structures. Land and resources traditionally belong to men, and women lack income, education and a say in family and public decisions. This inequality affects their economic independence, health and life prospects.

At the same time, as vegetable farmers, women make a key contribution to the local food supply, but face challenges such as water shortages, pest infestation and limited access to finance. Climate change further exacerbates these problems, while women are barely represented in decision-making processes, which increases their social marginalization.

The project strengthens the economic and social position of women in the Kangaba and Kati districts through organic horticulture. Women are trained in agroecological techniques to grow climate-resilient crops, reduce water shortages and prevent pest infestations. Local knowledge is used to develop sustainable solutions in a participatory manner.

Women are given access to land and microfinance systems in order to become more economically independent. Supported by the cultivation and sale of organic vegetables, they secure a stable income, which strengthens their position in the family and community. Gender-transformative approaches also promote the active participation of women in family and public decisions and provide impetus for gender equality.

The sustainable intensification of vegetable cultivation not only improves food security in the region, but also contributes to resilient agriculture. The project combines ecological sustainability with gender equality and promotes the long-term economic autonomy and quality of life of women as well as the resilience of their communities.

Partner organisation
Grdr (Groupe de recherche de réalisations pour le développement rural)

Project phase
1.10.2024 to 30.9.2027

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IBAN CH95 0900 0000 4063 7178 8