Ouahigouya:Yatenga The "Women in Business" press caravan has reported satisfactory results from its women's empowerment initiatives, as presented by Aminata Guigma/Kinda, the focal point for communication for social and behavioral change for the SWEDD+ project. The caravan, part of the "PAGB YIDGR-SOORÉ" campaign, was assessed positively during a dedicated meeting held on October 23, 2026, in Ouahigouya. The campaign focused on women's economic empowerment, community awareness, and health services.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the caravan facilitated the discovery of seven associations and various women's initiatives involved in producing shea butter, soumbala, infant flour, compost, and engaging in agroecology, soilless cultivation, weaving, dyeing, and agri-food processing from non-timber forest products. Aminata Guigma/Kinda praised the determination of the women involved, who continue to develop their businesses despite facing challenges.
She noted that while some associations have suitable premises and equipment, others work with limited resources. The caravan also carried out awareness-raising and advocacy actions, reaching more than 200 traditional and religious leaders who pledged support for women's initiatives, including advocating for land allocation to women.
Educational talks reached over 400 women and girls, with forum theaters and other activities promoting women's economic empowerment. The SWEDD+ focal point highlighted that the caravan was accompanied by a team offering free reproductive health services to over 450 women and girls, including screenings for cervical cancer, breast cancer, viral hepatitis, and HIV.
Aminata Guigma/Kinda expressed hope that women in the region would strengthen their economic activities and improve their living conditions sustainably. The "PAGB YIDGR-SOORÉ" campaign, also known as "Women's Entrepreneurship," aims to promote women's economic empowerment by supporting their initiatives and mobilizing community actors.
Launched on October 10, 2026, in Koudougou, the campaign has already covered the Nando and Yaadga regions and continues in Koulsé until October 29, 2026. The Ministry of Health, through the Health Development Support Program (PADS), and the Ministry of Family and Solidarity, in collaboration with URCB-SD, CCEB-BF, and the NGO ASMADE, lead the campaign, which is financed by the World Bank through PADS. It aims to promote women's entrepreneurship as a means for social transformation, reducing gender inequalities, and fostering inclusive growth.