Ouagadougou: The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Ouaga Elite, in collaboration with the Lions Club Koubri Citrine (LCKC) and the Leo Club Ouagadougou Reflets (LCOR), launched the first phase of the “Sustainable Hope” project from Tuesday, September 9 to Thursday, September 11, 2025, in Toudouweogo. This training initiative aims to empower Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), with the closing ceremony held at the Toudouweogo youth center, offering hope to those displaced.

According to Burkina Information Agency, more than 40 IDPs, including young people, women, and the elderly, participated in this first session. They received practical training in the production of “koko Dunda” loincloths, “kabakourou” soap, and liquid soap, which opens up economic opportunities for them. This training allows participants to generate income, achieve greater autonomy, and support their families’ needs.

JCI Ouaga Elite Executive President Dr. Kouala Loukman stated that this project builds on a 2024 initiative that trained several IDPs in rabbit farming and soilless agriculture. “The main objective is to enable internally displaced persons to carry out income-generating activities so as not to depend solely on the state,” he explained, while announcing the future distribution of starter kits to participants.

The event’s chairwoman, Mrs. Sore Adjiratou, who represents the IDPs, praised the activity as beneficial and empowering for women and young people in district No. 4, urging beneficiaries to utilize the training effectively.

Participant Fatimata Abdouraman expressed gratitude for the training, noting it as an unexpected opportunity. “If peace returns and we return, we will be able to use these skills to pay for our children’s schooling and provide for ourselves. Manual work never ends,” she commented.

In addition to the training, organizers provided food, including rice and pasta, to participants. They aim to continue the initiative in the coming years to enhance resilience and integration opportunities for IDPs.