Credit International Labour Organization
United by a shared vision of empowerment and sustainability, the women of an Agricultural Development Group (GDA) called Femme et Palmier have built a collective that thrives on solidarity and innovation. Their story is one of resilience, community, and the transformative power of the social and solidarity economy (SSE), supported by the Jeun’ESS project.
In South Douz, Kebili Governorate, a unique initiative is transforming the lives of rural women and redefining agricultural development. The GDA Femme et Palmier, established in March 2020, is a women-led cooperative dedicated to enhancing agricultural resources, promoting traditional crafts, and supporting rural women in the region.
A Vision Rooted in Unity and Empowerment
The GDA Femme et Palmier was born out of a desire to formalize and strengthen the work of rural women in South Douz. Many of the women involved had been working individually in agriculture and traditional crafts but lacked the structure and resources to expand their efforts. By coming together under a legal framework, they gained access to financing and project opportunities that had previously been out of reach.
The cooperative’s mission is multifaceted: to optimize agricultural resources, support traditional industries, and create opportunities for rural women to thrive. The women’s work is seasonal, alternating between agricultural activities and the production of artisanal goods. This dual focus not only preserves local heritage but also diversifies income streams for the members.
Overcoming Challenges: Support from Jeun’ESS
The early days of the GDA were marked by challenges, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Just as the cooperative was beginning to organize its activities, the pandemic brought everything to a halt. Markets closed, supply chains were disrupted, and the future seemed uncertain.
It was during this critical period that the Jeun’ESS project provided a lifeline. Through Jeun’ESS, the cooperative received financial support and essential equipment, including machinery for fertilizer production. This assistance was pivotal, not only for the fertilizer initiative but also for other farming activities.
The project’s impact extended beyond material support. Members of the GDA participated in training sessions on compost production and usage, which enabled them to improve their agricultural practices. For example, compost techniques learned through Jeun’ESS helped members grow crops such as potatoes more efficiently.
One of the cooperative’s leaders reflected on the importance of this support: “In the beginning, our ambitions were limited. Jeun’ESS gave us the motivation and tools to succeed and improve our products.”
The Social and Solidarity Economy in Action
At the heart of GDA Femme et Palmier’s success is the philosophy of the social and solidarity economy. This approach emphasizes collective well-being, cooperation, and community-driven solutions. For the women of the GDA, this means working together to support each other’s projects and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Training in financial and administrative management, provided through Jeun’ESS, has empowered the women to take charge of their cooperative’s operations. They have gained skills in budgeting, project management, and strategic planning—tools that are essential for long-term sustainability.
Beyond the technical aspects, the cooperative is deeply committed to supporting rural women. The GDA not only provides economic opportunities but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity. The women work hand in hand, sharing knowledge, resources, and encouragement.
Building a Sustainable Future
Looking ahead, the women of GDA Femme et Palmier are focused on growth and sustainability. They are actively planning for the future, confident in their ability to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities. The cooperative’s success has inspired its members to dream bigger and pursue new projects that will benefit both the community and the environment.
The support from Jeun’ESS has been instrumental in this journey. It provided the initial funding and resources that allowed the cooperative to establish itself and realize the value of collective action. As one member put it, “It was the first funding that made us understand the strength of our structure and what we could achieve together.”
Conclusion
The story of GDA Femme et Palmier is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the social and solidarity economy. Through their partnership with Jeun’ESS and a commitment to empowering rural women, the cooperative has not only revitalized agriculture in South Douz but also created a model of sustainable development and empowerment.
As the women of GDA Femme et Palmier continue to grow and innovate, their journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating what is possible when communities come together to support each other and build a better future. In South Douz, the seeds of hope and empowerment have been planted—and they are thriving.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NerjiMed – ILO)
