WFF Côte d'Ivoire Youth Chapter trains rural women in biological input production

On 11 July 2026, nineteen women members of the GNOUWIETA association participated in a training on the production of organic agricultural inputs at the Daloa Socio-Educational Centre in Côte d’Ivoire. The initiative aimed to strengthen women’s capacities in sustainable farming practices, promote healthier crop production and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.

The training was organized through a collaboration between the Abondance Production Agricole association (APA) and the WFF Côte d’Ivoire Youth Chapter, with the support of the GNOUWIETA women’s association. The initiative contributed to broader efforts to promote agroecological practices and strengthen women's role as key actors in sustainable agrifood systems.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from representatives involved in the initiative. The President of GNOUWIETA highlighted the importance of women’s participation in the transition towards more sustainable agricultural practices. The President of APA emphasized the importance of soil fertility and the link between healthy soils, productive farms and community health. Representatives of the Chapter also presented the broader context of the initiative and its contribution to promoting sustainable agriculture among young people and local communities.

The training was conducted in two phases. During the theoretical session, participants learned how to produce natural plant protection products, including organic fungicides and insecticides, and how to apply them to local crops. They were also introduced to the risks associated with excessive use of chemical pesticides and the benefits of organic inputs for soil health, farmers’ well-being and environmental sustainability.

The practical session took place at the GNOUWIETA farm, where participants learned step by step to produce compost using locally available organic materials. This technique provides a natural alternative to chemical fertilizers while improving soil fertility and contributing to more resilient farming practices.

At the end of the training, participants expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge gained in their own agricultural activities. Certificates of participation were awarded to all participants by the Chapter in recognition of their engagement and contribution to advancing agroecological practices in their communities.

This initiative strengthened the capacities and confidence of women farmers while showcasing GNOUWIETA’s role as a local actor promoting agricultural innovation in the region. It also reinforced the Chapter’s commitment to supporting women’s empowerment and youth-led action for more sustainable agrifood systems. A follow-up field visit is planned for the coming months to assess the contribution of the training to soil fertility, farmers’ practices and the resilience of local agrifood systems.