An Inspiring Metamorphosis: Redefining Women's Leadership Through Environmental Protection

In response to this problem, an innovative project has been launched by the Groupe d'Action pour la Justice et l'Égalité Sociale (GAJES) in collaboration with CECI and its Volunteer Cooperation Program. Entitled Contribution of Youth and Women who Prepare and Sell Akassa to Environmental Protection, this initiative aims to offer a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging, while strengthening the leadership of women in the community. 

A Collective and Transformative Initiative 

To succeed, the project was rooted in community dynamism. Residents were invited to co-construct the solution, which led to the creation of the AFLEGNON TITO MAN GBA group. This mixed collective is involved in the production, processing and marketing of thalia leaves, a local plant with multiple uses, which it uses as an alternative to plastic packaging and bags. 

The commitment of local youth is at the heart of this revolution. While young men devoted themselves to growing thalia leaves, young women took charge of processing and marketing them. Female akassa sellers were the first to adopt this ecological alternative, redefining their role in the local economy. 

"When we started using thalia leaves, I realized that we could protect our environment and increase our income at the same time. It gave us a new lease on life", says FIATO GRÂCE, an active member of the group. 

A Lasting Transformation 

Two years after the launch of the project, the results speak for themselves. The community has changed in several ways: 

• A switch to thalia leaves - Akassa growers and sellers have fully adopted these leaves as a packaging material, largely limiting the use of plastic. 
• Visible reduction in plastic waste - Streets once littered with bags are now cleaner, testifying to the impact of awareness campaigns. 
• Environmental awareness - Residents have adopted new practices that respect the environment, protect their living environment and preserve natural resources. 
• A flourishing market and economic empowerment - Thanks to the sale of thalia leaves, the women have developed a stable source of income. With 18 packages sold at 1,100 FCFA per quarterly harvest, they are now better able to meet the needs of their families. 

This testimony reflects a very real metamorphosis: that of a community that, by redefining its practices, is transforming its daily life. 

Towards a Sustainable Future 

With the creation of dedicated spaces and nurseries to ensure sustainable production, the project has laid the foundations for long-term change. The women and young people involved in this initiative are already seeing the positive impact on their lives. 

This success goes beyond the simple fight against plastic waste: it shows how local commitment, supported by visionary partners, can redefine the role of women and young people in sustainable development. Together, they are building a future where economic prosperity and environmental protection go hand in hand. 

FIATO GRÂCE concludes with a smile: "We've learned that by changing our habits, we can change our lives. And we owe that to our ability to work together." 

This story is based on the activities of the Volunteer Cooperation Program carried out in partnership with the Government of Canada.

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