Water, Health & Women's Empowerment- Guinea Bissau

Introduction
In the regions of Gabu and Bafatá in Guinea Bissau, women are emerging as key drivers of sustainable development through their leadership in market garden activities. Amidst economic challenges and limited infrastructure, local women have established thriving agricultural initiatives that not only ensure food security for their families but also benefit the wider community. This report outlines the progress, impact, and sustainable practices embedded within these grassroots initiatives.

Women Leading the Way in Sustainability
Women in Gabu and Bafatá have taken proactive steps to transform small plots of land into productive market gardens. Utilizing organic methods and local knowledge, they are cultivating a wide variety of vegetables, including okra, lettuce, peppers, onions, and leafy greens. These gardens have become lifelines for communities, reducing dependency on external aid and providing daily nutrition.

Their leadership goes beyond cultivation—women are organizing themselves into cooperatives, managing shared resources, keeping financial records, and establishing clear roles within their teams. They are not only growing crops, but also growing confidence, capacity, and community.

Family and Community Support
A crucial element of this sustainable model is the involvement of partners and children. Men in these regions, traditionally not involved in gardening, are now supporting their wives and community members through land preparation, water collection, and transportation of produce to markets. Children are also participating, learning agricultural techniques, and gaining an appreciation for sustainable food systems.

This multigenerational involvement fosters resilience, encourages intergenerational learning, and promotes collective responsibility for community well-being.

Donation to Schools: A Model of Collective Prosperity
An inspiring component of this initiative is the donation of excess produce to local schools. Women-led groups have established informal agreements with school leaders to provide vegetables on a weekly basis, supporting school feeding programs and improving children's nutrition. This initiative not only strengthens the bond between communities and schools but also exemplifies a self-sustaining, mutually beneficial system.

The produce donations have led to higher attendance rates, improved concentration among students, and a strong sense of pride among women farmers.

Sustainability Measures
To ensure the longevity and independence of these projects, several sustainability measures have been adopted:

Water Access: Wells and small-scale irrigation systems have been installed to ensure year-round cultivation.

Training: Women receive training in climate-resilient farming, composting, seed-saving, and natural pest control.

Community Structures: Village committees oversee the maintenance and coordination of garden spaces.

Income Diversification: Surplus vegetables are sold in local markets, with profits reinvested into education, health, and garden expansion.

Conclusion
The women of Gabu and Bafatá are not only cultivating food—they are cultivating a future rooted in sustainability, cooperation, and empowerment. With the support of their families and communities, they have created a model that ensures food security, boosts local economies, and promotes a sense of ownership and dignity. Their actions serve as a testament to the power of women-led solutions in driving sustainable development.