Gourma: The Association for the Development of the Grace of God (ADGD) convened for its general meeting covering the first half of 2025 in Fada N’Gourma, with notable attendance from municipal and regional authorities. Since its inception, ADGD has pursued its mission of initiating humanitarian and development projects across various sectors such as entrepreneurship, soap making, food processing, sewing, and hairdressing.
According to Burkina Information Agency, ADGD President Pascaline Wentoin Noali outlined the organization’s commitment to supporting widows, orphans, and internally displaced women. To date, the association has successfully trained 40 widows, 25 orphans, and 35 internally displaced women. Ms. Noali attributed her involvement in development efforts to her childhood experiences of witnessing her father’s aid to widows and orphans. She emphasized that all development activities have been self-driven without external financial partnerships.
Siaka Ouattara, Secretary General of the Eastern Region, praised the association’s efforts, particularly in the absence of support from financial partners. He highlighted the significance of empowering women facing difficulties to become self-reliant. Mr. Ouattara further encouraged local authorities to support such initiatives, which he believes could serve as a model for similar efforts elsewhere.
Kibsa Kanla, a participant who received training in soap making, shared her experience, stating that she now earns a living through the skills acquired from the association. “I decided to earn a decent living by joining this association,” Ms. Kanla expressed, underscoring the impact of ADGD’s training programs.