On March 27, 2025, the Youth Initiative for Land in Africa (YILAA) organization brought together more than 125 young and female agricultural producers from the Borgou department in Parakou, Benin, for an awareness-raising workshop. The main objective was to promote the adoption of agroecological technologies to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) in maize and rice production.

These pollutants, such as methane and black carbon, have adverse effects on the environment, human health, and soil fertility. In response, YILAA has introduced agroecological practices integrated into a circular economy system, aiming to improve farm sustainability and strengthen the rural economy.

The workshop combined theoretical and practical sessions, covering topics such as compost production in 18 days, organic fertilizer manufacturing, the principles of agroecology and the circular economy, and women’s land rights. The trainers managed to generate strong interest among the participants, who expressed their willingness to share the knowledge they acquired with other producers, with the aim of reaching approximately 500 people in their communities.

This initiative is part of the #Agroecology and #CircularEconomy for Ecosystem Services (#ACE4ES) project, supported by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC). It aims to build the capacity of youth and women in sustainable agricultural practices, thereby contributing to reducing SCP emissions and promoting food security in Benin.

By focusing on empowering women and youth in the agricultural sector, YILAA hopes to foster a positive transformation of agricultural practices, while respecting the environment and improving the living conditions of rural communities.