Mamoua – Farmer in Burkina Faso
Social support and management training have helped me strengthen my skills and confidence. Today, my family eats more regularly and I can pay for healthcare when needed. I also support my refugee parents by sending them financial assistance.
I am proud to have gone from dependence to independence. My goal is to continue developing my business and diversifying my income to ensure a stable future for my children.
My name is Mamouna Sawadogo, I was born on November 9, 2004, in Namsiguia. I am married and the mother of two daughters, aged 4 and 2. My husband is a gold miner and works far from Ouagadougou, where I now live with my children, my mother-in-law, and my nephew. I lost my father at a very young age and had to drop out of school in second grade due to lack of funds. Married at 16 according to tradition, my life was turned upside down when armed attacks forced our village to flee. Arriving in Ouagadougou without any resources, I survived by begging and doing odd jobs. I felt hopeless at the time.
From begging to market gardening
While looking for work, I discovered a landscaped garden where I was initially employed on a daily basis. In November 2025, I rented eight plots to start my own business. With the help of gardeners who lent me tools and cuttings, I expanded my operation to eighteen plots with YIKRI. Today, I grow lettuce, mint, and amaranth, which I sell to wholesalers. I work every day and even employ an assistant twice a week. My monthly income has increased from around 12,000 CFA francs (approximately $18) to at least 70,000 CFA francs (approximately $103). I have learned to manage my money better and to save regularly.
A more stable future for my family
Social support and management training have enabled me to strengthen my skills and confidence. Today, my family eats more regularly and I can pay for healthcare when necessary. I also support my refugee parents by sending them financial assistance. I am proud to have moved from dependence to independence. My goal is to continue developing my activities and diversifying my income to ensure a stable future for my children.
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