Spicing up profits in Burkina Faso

Helping the Wend Panga women’s group increase their production of soumbala - the popular spice - is paying off.

Our Development Worker has been supporting women in Burkina Faso to work collaboratively – instead of by themselves - to increase their incomes, and raise themselves and their families out of poverty.

The women of Wend Panga turn neere seeds into the spice soumbala, and at last they are beginning to receive a fair price for it at market in the capital, Ouagadougou. By producing and sending out a sales brochure, orders have also come in from five other towns. In addition, the women’s activities have successfully expanded to the production of neem oil, soap, dried fruits, and vegetables.

The women’s ability to increase their income has had a positive impact on their families, both financially and by improving gender relations.

At first, the women faced strong opposition from their husbands for getting together and working together. However, as the women have made progress with producing goods and negotiating better prices, the men have been won over.

Now able to buy additional ingredients to add to their food and improve nutrition, they can also buy soap, contribute to medical expenses, and pay school fees for their children. For women in polygamous marriages, who often take on full responsibility for their children’s welfare, this is a breakthrough.

Halimata Ouedraogo, who is divorced and has 10 children, says:
“my work has helped me a lot in taking charge of me and my family.”

She has been attending literacy classes for three years, and is the only one in the group who can read and write. She plays a crucial role in taking notes from group meetings and training sessions.

As a result of International Service’s support, the Wend Pangawomen now have greater confidence and can work together as a united group. This has made a difference to how they see themselves – they are beginning to feel more empowered to analyse their own problems, identify solutions, and seek assistance.