Zoundw©ogo: The Network for the Promotion and Empowerment of Rural Women (REPAFER) handed over installation kits on Wednesday in Manga to nine vulnerable young girls from the provinces of Kourw©ogo and Zoundw©ogo, as part of the implementation of the YAM PUKRI program. This initiative aims to strengthen the socio-professional and economic resilience of young girls who are victims of, or at risk of, early and forced marriage, through support that promotes their long-term empowerment.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the nine girls all received vocational training support in the program’s intervention areas. After an individualized assessment of their needs at the end of their training, REPAFER acquired equipment adapted to the trades learned by each of them in order to facilitate their integration into working life. Thus, six young women trained in pattern making received sewing machines, while three others, specializing in dyeing and weaving, benefited from looms and various accessories essential to the exercise of their activity.
REPAFER officials stated that this grant will enable beneficiaries to become self-employed, develop income-generating activities, and strengthen their financial independence. They added that it will also help reduce their vulnerability to exploitation, forced marriage, and dropping out of school. The breakdown of beneficiaries reveals that two young women are from Kourw©ogo and seven from Zoundw©ogo. Of all the beneficiaries, six were trained in tailoring and three in dyeing and weaving.
Beyond the distribution of kits, the project includes a monitoring and evaluation system to assess the progress of the beneficiaries’ activities and ensure their sustainable socio-professional reintegration. The YAM PUKRI program, which supports this initiative, receives financial support from the Girls First Fund. It is implemented by REPAFER in partnership with IFDC, SNV Burkina Faso, the Pananetugri Initiative for Women’s Well-being (IPBF), and WANEP Burkina Faso.
The handover ceremony brought together administrative authorities, technical services, parents, trainers, and the beneficiaries. It marked an important milestone in the process of supporting young girls toward self-reliance.