Project presented by Association Humanitaire pour l’Afrique (AHPA)

Project implemented in Benin :
Training 40 women salt producers in environmentally-friendly solar techniques

In the coastal villages of Ouidah, Benin, women traditionally produce salt by boiling brine using mangrove wood. This method is harmful to their health due to smoke exposure and damaging to the environment because of mangrove deforestation. Furthermore, to protect the ecosystem, national authorities have banned mangrove cutting, putting the livelihoods of these women at risk.

To preserve their main source of income, safeguard their health, and protect biodiversity, the Humanitarian Association for Africa (AHPA), in partnership with a local NGO and a French expert in Atlantic coastal salt marshes, is supporting women in Ouidah—organized into cooperatives—to transition to more sustainable salt production methods. These include solar evaporation on tarpaulins. Using raised platforms prevents contamination by dust, resulting in cleaner, safer salt for consumption. The association provides the necessary equipment, trains the salt producers, and ensures ongoing support through monthly group meetings and the establishment of a community-based savings and credit scheme. Environmental awareness campaigns are also carried out in schools and during public events such as Tree Day and International Women's Day.

Use of the Award:
The women salt producers will use the prize to diversify their product offering by introducing ground salt, rent stalls at local markets to enable direct sales, and enhance the ecological and local-production value of their goods within a broader commercial strategy. These efforts aim to expand their production capacity and strengthen their autonomy.

Website Link: https://www.ahpa-asso.org