Description of the project: In 2019, Action for Youth and the Environment (AYE) trained 300 women throughout the Datcheka, Guidiguis, Tchatibali, and Maroua communities in Northern Cameroon to grow organic foods using innovative, climate adapted farming methods. The project taught young women and girls to use hydroponic and aquaponic growth systems to challenge food insecurity and create economic opportunities in drought affected areas. Additionally, AYE trained 1,000 primary and secondary school girls in practical STEM activities, equipping them with skills in entrepreneurship and food-production.

Climate impact
	Producing and selling fish as well as harvesting crops supports climate adaptation in rural areas affected by droughts.
	The system reduces water use by 95% and GHG emission by 20% by eliminating conventional logistics.
Gender impact
	Cultural shifts in the community engage women as stakeholders with technical entrepreneurship roles in building and operating hydroponic systems
	Promotes young women’s education and capacity strengthening to engage in practical STEM activities.
	Promotes women’s rights by bringing them at the decision table of local authorities to discuss community development.
Scalability / replicability
	Workshops and training can be replicated and extended to regions facing terrorist and environmental threats.
	Delivers broad technology knowledge using local raw materials to shape sustainable circular economies within rural communities
	Workshops on peacebuilding, leadership training, management, and sustainable community economic development plan with the community members.