DORI: The Environment and Local Development Association (EDEL) has announced the launch of a new educational initiative aimed at fostering environmental awareness and agricultural skills among students in the Sahel region. The program was unveiled during a public conference held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, which saw participation from a diverse group of pupils, educators, community leaders, and stakeholders.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the conference was themed “Environmental education and citizen participation of communities in sustainable development projects of the Essakane mine”. EDEL’s president, Mr. Ibrahim Maïga, emphasized that the initiative is a crucial component of the 2024-2025 action plan designed to integrate environmental considerations into regional development projects. He noted that the partnership with IAMGOLD Essakane SA is pivotal for setting up school gardens that will function as practical learning environments for children.
Mr. Maïga added that these gardens will teac
h children the significance of environmental preservation and provide hands-on agricultural experience. Mr. Issouf Mohamed Dicko, representing the General Manager of IAMGOLD Essakane SA, expressed his support for the project, highlighting its potential to drive positive, enduring changes within local communities by educating young citizens capable of crafting sustainable, ecosystem-friendly solutions.
The initiative received a warm reception from the Governor of the Sahel region, Lieutenant Colonel Fabien Rodolphe Sorgho, who stressed the importance of achieving the collaborative goals and ensuring that the program’s outcomes are beneficial for the region’s development. The launch event also featured a panel discussion led by prominent local and environmental education figures, including Mr. Elhadji Boubacar, Lieutenant-Colonel Dramane Fogo, Mr. Ousseini Maïga, Mr. Steve Somda, and Professor Alkassoum Maïga. They explored various facets of environmental education, community involvement, sustainable developme
nt, and the impacts of mining activities.
