Content translated online
“This cooperative represents our collective strength. Our willingness to act together was realized during the founding general meeting. Through this organization, we aspire to fully benefit from all the rights and advantages granted to farmers’ organizations.” These words from Ibrahima Mbaye, unanimously elected president of the cooperative of farmers living with disabilities in the Niayes area, sum up the spirit that marked the founding general meeting held on December 10 in Mboro under the aegis of CRADESC.
A cooperative to strengthen inclusion and solidarity
For its members, the creation of the cooperative represents much more than a simple organizational structure. It embodies a tangible step towards economic empowerment, full participation in local development, and above all, social recognition.
“I could have chosen begging, but I decided to believe in myself. I invite everyone to join us. Previously, as people living with a disability, we had never been sufficiently included, but we know who we are: above all, human beings,” said Khady Thiam, also a member of the cooperative.
A businesswoman living with a physical disability, she says she is proud and honored to be part of a project that promotes autonomy and inclusion. She expressed her complete satisfaction at being able to boost her economic activities thanks to this initiative.
The men and women of the cooperative aim to pool their efforts to secure access to land and agricultural inputs, strengthen their technical skills, and improve their incomes. The cooperative also serves as a space for solidarity and representation, allowing farmers with disabilities to make their voices heard in local decision-making bodies.
A strong act in favor of human rights
This initiative embodies a fundamental principle of human rights: ensuring everyone has fair access to resources, opportunities, and means of livelihood. It demonstrates that the economic inclusion of people with disabilities is not only possible but essential for equitable and sustainable development.
CRADESC, with the support of the Bosch Foundation, welcomes this exemplary momentum and reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that place inclusion, dignity, and social justice at the heart of rural development.
