#Advocacy – Empowering Change: The Impact of Slow Food Workshop on Food Sovereignty in West Africa

In 2024, over 350 participants from 13 countries gathered at the Ndem Ecovillage guest house in Yoff (Senegal) for a transformative workshop focused on food sovereignty and ecological regeneration. This gathering brought together young change-makers from across West Africa, including Senegal, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and more, creating a powerful platform for collaboration and learning.

A Journey of Discovery

Throughout the workshop, delegates showcased their community projects, honing their skills in grant proposal writing and engaging in rich discussions. The participants took a hands-on approach, exploring the Baol region, where they visited traditional fabric units, recycling initiatives, community orchards, and Baobab processing operations. These visits were eye-opening, enabling attendees to connect with local leaders and share insights on both successes and challenges in sustainable practices.

Amplifying the Message

The enthusiasm generated by this workshop echoed far beyond its immediate attendees. The event was widely shared on WhatsApp, in the REDES March Newsletter, and on Facebook, reaching an audience of over 8,000 followers. Key discussions included outreach to the deputy mayor of Dar el Barka in Mauritania and local forestry services, further extending the workshop’s impact.

Voices Empowered

With a strong focus on inclusivity, the workshop provided participants the opportunity to express themselves in their local languages, supported by translation services. This approach not only empowered individuals to share their experiences without constraints but also highlighted the deep commitment of participants to engage their communities in critical food sovereignty issues.

Key Takeaways

The success of the workshop can be seen in several key areas:

• Inspiring Collaboration: Participants engaged in vibrant exchanges, sharing ideas and learning from one another, thereby fostering a sense of unity among young leaders.
• Expert Guidance: The high-quality mentorship provided in grant proposal writing equipped attendees with the skills needed to secure funding for their impactful projects.
• Local Insights: Hands-on experiences and interactions with local actors showcased the practical implications of sustainable practices, resonating deeply with participants’ aspirations.
• Strengthened Networks: The event catalyzed new connections and reinforced the Slow Food Network, marking a significant step for collaboration between REDES and Slow Food West Africa.

A Call to Action

The REDES workshop was not just an event—it was a powerful call to action for young leaders dedicated to advocating for food sovereignty and environmental health throughout West Africa. As they harness their collective knowledge and passion, these participants are set to create a ripple effect of change within their communities.

Donors and supporters are invited to join this essential movement. Together, we can empower these inspiring leaders, cultivate sustainable food systems, and foster resilience across the region. Investing in their potential is investing in a brighter future for generations to come. Let’s unite for change—right now!

The workshop in Ndem Ecovillage created enthusiasm, inspiration. Each participant shared their country’s kwnoledge as well as the relevance and impact of their projects. Bringing young and ambitious change-makers from different parts of Africa was inspiring.

Ousmane Aly Pame, Redes and Slow Food Regional Workshops