Accra:Yatenga As part of the 'Women in Business' communication campaign, a press caravan visited two women's cooperatives in the commune of Oula, Yatenga province. The visit took place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, showcasing the Tegawend cooperative, known for its shea butter production in Ziga, and the Relwend Simplified Cooperative Society (SCOOPS), which manufactures solid and liquid soap in Kalsagado.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the caravan's first stop was the Tegawend cooperative in Ziga. Managed by Florence Oudraogo, this cooperative has expanded from 40 to 60 women members over four years. Despite facing challenges such as a lack of shea nuts, the cooperative continues its shea butter production. Oudraogo described the labor-intensive process of transforming shea nuts into butter and highlighted the need for equipment to ease production. She also emphasized the positive impact on household finances, as noted by Isso Oudraogo, whose wife is a cooperative member.

The caravan proceeded to Kalsagado, visiting the Relwend Simplified Cooperative Society. Led by president Korotimi Oudraogo, the cooperative employs 83 women in soap production. The income from soap sales supports family needs and education. However, rising raw material costs present a challenge. Korotimi Oudraogo called for support from authorities and NGOs to further their activities.

The visit highlighted the women's expertise in processing local products and their financial contributions to households. The "Women in Business" campaign, launched on October 10, 2026, in Koudougou, aims to promote women's entrepreneurship, reduce gender inequalities, and foster inclusive growth. The campaign, supported by the World Bank through PADS, is led by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Family and Solidarity, in collaboration with several organizations. The caravan will continue through the Kouls region, concluding on October 29, 2026.