On December 3 and 4, 2025, one hundred and fifteen (115) farmers from the Bafing region benefited from a two-pronged strategic initiative in Touba: comprehensive training and the distribution of agricultural kits. This action is part of the Project to Support the Empowerment of Border Farming Communities , led by the National Border Commission of Côte d'Ivoire (CNFCI) in partnership with the African Union Commission (AU) .

🚀 Objectives and Resources

The beneficiaries, from seven border towns (including Boutisso, Mandougou, and Vayasso), were trained in good agricultural practices , agri-food processing and cooperative management .

They also received agricultural kits including inputs, tools and equipment at a total cost of 15 million FCFA .

The overall objective is to:

1. Improve agricultural yields.
2. Strengthen the autonomy and organization of local cooperatives.
3. To increase the economic and social resilience of rural communities.
4. Promote the inclusion of rural women in value chains.

🗣️ A Strategy for Development and Peace

Konaté Diakalidia , Executive Secretary of the CNFCI, emphasized that this training and equipment are " essential levers " for adding value to agricultural production and strengthening economic resilience. He reminded communities of their role as " first line of defense for the territory ," stressing the link between their agricultural work and border security , which amounts to a commitment to peace and social cohesion.

Representing the African Union, Dr. Okello Sunday , Acting Head of the Border Programme, noted that this initiative aligns with the African Peace and Security Council's commitment to strengthening the Peace-Security-Development nexus. He encouraged participants to leverage the skills acquired as a catalyst for economic transformation and a means of building resilience to climate and market shocks.

🌟 Encouragement from Local Authorities

Kouakou Yao Dinard , Regional Prefect, praised the project, which aims to enhance the natural and human resources of the Bafing region. He emphasized that by providing 115 producers, mostly women , with these tools and training, the foundations for more efficient agriculture and a strong cooperative organization are being strengthened. The Prefect strongly encouraged the beneficiaries to demonstrate " commitment, discipline, and a spirit of solidarity " to ensure the project's success.