In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, the gender component of the Lake Chad Basin Conservation Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, organized discussions and exchanges in Mandelia, located in the Chari-Baguirmi province of Chad. The event emphasized the importance of gender-based model families (GBMF) as a vital tool for promoting gender equality and empowering women, while incorporating nature-based climate solutions.
The event brought together ten women’s groups, beneficiaries of the project’s income-generating activities (IGA), local authorities, and representatives from the Ministries of Women, Early Childhood, and Environment. Participants engaged in discussions about the challenges and opportunities in advancing gender equality, strengthening women’s rights, and supporting their empowerment.
The discussions underscored the importance of challenging traditional social norms and raising awareness within communities to encourage a more inclusive understanding of women’s roles both in the household and in society.
Awareness and Community Engagement
The local theater troupe in Mandelia performed an engaging skit on the importance of gender-based model families, reinforcing the message of gender equality and women’s empowerment within local climate solutions.
At the event’s conclusion, Ahmat Abaya, the country manager for the project, stated:
“We are proud to support women’s organizations in the Ramsar site of Chari-Baguirmi in their commitment to equality and freedom, through micro-grants that enable every woman to thrive in her community.”
To recognize local initiatives that integrate nature-based climate solutions, the project announced the creation of the Women’s Excellence Award, which will be presented at the 2026 edition.
