Zabre: An association promotes soumbala and organic shea butter: The Evangelical Association of Pastors of Burkina Faso has launched a project to promote organic shea butter and soumbala, aiming to align with the "produce what we consume" philosophy. The initiative was marked by the inauguration of a new warehouse dedicated to these local products in Zabre.

According to Burkina Information Agency, during the ceremony, Jacques Gouba, First Vice-President of the Zabre Special Delegation, highlighted the project's potential to enhance the living conditions of the town's residents. He noted the cultural significance of soumbala and shea butter, recalling their traditional use in local cuisine by previous generations.

Moussa Michel Gouba, president of the Evangelical Pastors Association, shared the origins of the association. It was founded by church leaders and community members from the Zabre region with a mission to address social issues such as juvenile delinquency, prostitution, and moral decay through biblical education.

The production of shea butter and soumbala will involve women from five villages within the Zabre commune: Zabre, Zihoun, Wangala, Moungou, and Mangagou. Elisabeth Bonsa, representing the women and leading this group, expressed her belief that this initiative will provide economic empowerment for women, helping them to rise out of poverty and support their families.

The association also has plans to cultivate 100 hectares of nere trees, shea trees, and other medicinal plants. Currently, it boasts 285 members, comprising 185 women and 100 men, and receives backing from the Microfinance Programme and the Global Environment Facility.