Update from Burkina Faso | November 2024

The importance of women and trees in reforestation

In Burkina Faso, women are a mainstay of rural communities, contributing substantially to their families’ livelihoods and the local economy. WOWnature has chosen to directly involve women in the management and care of Baobab, Shea, Moringa and Neré trees. These trees, chosen for their ecological value and multiple uses, are crucial not only to halt the advance of desertification, but also to offer Burkinabe women the opportunity to acquire skills in environmental management and the production of natural products. In fact, the women learn how to take care of the trees and transform their fruits into oils and butters, used in both the food and cosmetic industries. This local production contributes to the community’s economy.

Towards organic certification and fair trade

The marketing of products derived from the Baobab, Shea and Moringa trees takes place mainly in local markets and in the capital, but the project looks to the future with the ambition of expanding the distribution network internationally as well. Some products have already obtained ECOCERT organic certification, a recognition of their sustainable quality, and work is underway to obtain membership in fair trade networks, opening up new perspectives for European exports.

The role of the 2024 rainy season and new trees

During this year’s rainy season, between July and September, new Neré and Baobab trees were planted. The plants were transferred from the nurseries to the designated reforestation area in the village of Zider. These trees add to the 5,000 already planted in previous years, thanks to the support of citizens and companies, who have chosen to do their part to combat desertification and generate a social impact on people’s lives.

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