Ouahigouya:The 'Women in Business' communication campaign, known as 'PAGB YIDGR-SOORe', continued its activities with a press caravan in Ouahigouya, focusing on initiatives for women and the challenges they face. This event, part of the SWEDD+ project, aims to improve the living conditions of women in the Yaadga region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the governor of the Yaadga region, Thomas Yampa, emphasized that the security context, which affects schooling and keeps girls out of school due to population displacements, is a significant barrier to women's economic development. This situation complicates the management of reproductive, maternal, and child health issues. Awareness campaigns are being conducted to promote the empowerment of women and girls, with the caravan supporting education, healthcare access, and the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).
Regional director Laurent Samanyouga of Family and Solidarity in Yaadga announced efforts such as setting up production units, raising awareness against GBV, and providing equipment to enhance women's economic autonomy. Women's groups are engaged in market gardening, using the caravan to promote their produce and voice concerns to authorities. Access to land remains a challenge, but advocacy and the SWEDD+ project aim to improve this.
Participants, including NGO ASMADE, attended an advocacy meeting on GBV with local leaders. The president of the special delegation of Thiou, Boureima Ouedraogo, highlighted the collective responsibility in fighting GBV and child marriage, urging leaders to change perceptions and prioritize girls' education.
Minister Wedranga Naaba Saaga II, representing His Majesty Naaba Kiba, and Adama Apolline Kalga/Compaore of NGO ASMADE stressed the need for awareness, advocacy, and improved land access for women. Following discussions, journalists visited the Naaba Tigre Health and Social Promotion Centre for free health screenings for women, showcasing the campaign's impact.
The SWEDD+ project campaign, launched on October 10, 2026, continues until October 29, promoting women's entrepreneurship for social transformation and inclusive growth, funded by the World Bank through PADS.