TENKODOGO - On Friday, the Regional Pastoral Support Project in the Sahel, Phase 2-Burkina Faso (PRAPS 2-BF), convened a discussion panel in Tenkodogo, featuring about fifty local men and women beneficiaries. This gathering aimed to address gender-specific challenges and recognize the critical contributions of women in rural settings.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, orchestrated by project coordinator Dr. Souleymane Pindé, was designed as a precursor to the International Day of Rural Women on October 15. It focused on enhancing understanding of gender dynamics within the community and elevating the status of rural women.

Deborah Kam/Barry, the gender specialist at PRAPS 2-BF, highlighted the panel’s objective to enlighten participants about the significant yet often undervalued roles of women in rural economies. "The various points discussed during this panel mainly aim to highlight the essential role of rural women. The aim was to make women understand their importance in rural areas and to raise awareness among the entire population of their multiple contributions," she explained.

Participants, like Kaligueta Kaboré, expressed gratitude for the new insights provided by the event, particularly about the International Day of Rural Women, which emphasizes the critical yet frequently overlooked contributions of women. Discussions also addressed the need for equitable access to resources such as arable land.

Dimtenga-Naaba, a local traditional leader, spoke on the importance of engaging community leaders in advocating for gender equality. "We need to advocate with decision-makers and influential people to change mindsets. Ignorance is often the root cause of unfair behavior towards women. If we understand that family success depends on the collaboration between men and women, we will be more inclined to work together," he suggested.

The panel concluded with examples of successful initiatives by PRAPS 2-BF that aim to improve the quality of life for pastoral and agro-pastoral women, helping them gain autonomy and become more involved in their communities.