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Nyonu Si: Women Leaders for Climate Justice in Benin

JVE- Jeunes Volontaires pour l’Environnement

Honoree

Year: 2025

Country:

Benin

Topics:

BiodiversityCapacity-BuildingHealthy Ecosystems

Region:

Francophone Africa

About

In the lake region of Lokossa, Benin, women fishmongers are at the forefront of climate action. Facing severe deforestation, resource depletion, and rising temperatures, Jeunes Volontaires pour l’Environnement (JVE) reduces emissions with improved stoves that use less mangrove wood and cuts down pressure on fragile wetlands through aquaponic techniques and tree planting of local species. Beyond the environmental benefits, 85 women have gained technical and sustainable management skills while strengthening their public participation and decision-making power in their community. Through four cooperatives, they now
generate higher and more stable incomes.

Climate Impact

  • Improved fish-smoking stoves reduce carbon emissions by 60%, equivalent to 116 tonnes of CO2 per year, while reducing dependence on mangrove wood.
  • 4,000 local fruit trees were planted, contributing to reforestation and soil regeneration.
  • Four aquaponic systems were installed and tested, improving food security while reducing overfishing on the lake.

Gender Impact

  • Four cooperatives were created, ensuring women’s collective ownership,
    decision-making, and fair distribution of benefits.
  • 85 women leaders strengthened their technical, management,
    and public-speaking skills, positioning themselves as local climate leaders.
  • 400 women improved their financial independence through sustainable income generating activities linked to climate technologies.

Scalability/Replicability

  • The cooperative model with democratic governance can be replicated and adapted to other fishing communities.
  • Illustrated practical user guides for improved stoves and aquaponic systems were developed and shared for easy replication.

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