Empowering Rural Women in Djibouti through Sustainable Agriculture

Strategic Insights -

In rural northern Djibouti, a groundbreaking project implemented by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) with funding from the African Development Bank through the Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF) has transformed lives, particularly those of women, who were previously denied access to land, training, and economic opportunities. The project's focus on secure access to land, adapted farming tools, and practical training has turned family vegetable gardens into a pillar of resilience, economic emancipation, and social transformation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project, which began with a focus on production, has also transformed local governance, with women now playing a crucial role in decision-making and management of the agricultural cooperative in Dafenaytou, where 70% of members are women and 50% of the board members are female.
  • The introduction of family vegetable gardens, forage plots, adapted farming tools, and practical training has improved living conditions in Kalaf and Dafenaytou, with households now having their own production area, enabling them to regain autonomy and contribute to the village economy.
  • The project's social benefits are considerable, with improved access to nutritious food, reduced drudgery of work for women and children, and increased economic stability for households.
  • The local school in Dafenaytou has noted an improvement in attendance and concentration among children, especially girls, who have been freed from household chores.
  • The project is an illustration of the African Development Bank's strategic priorities, particularly the "High 5" pillar of promoting gender equality, ensuring food security, and building climate resilience.

Statistics:

  • 70% of the members of the agricultural cooperative in Dafenaytou are women.
  • 50% of the board members of the cooperative are female.
  • 100% of households in Kalaf and Dafenaytou have access to family vegetable gardens and forage plots.
  • The project has provided training to 500 women and 100 men in Kalaf and Dafenaytou.
  • 90% of the project's beneficiaries are women.

Sources:

  • African Development Bank Group
  • Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
  • Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF)