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Boda boda riders in Uganda take control of their health through savings
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
For many Ugandans, boda boda riders are the quickest and most reliable means of transport. Whether rushing an expectant mother to a health center, navigating rugged rural roads to deliver urgent supplies, or simply offering affordable transport, boda bodas have become an indispensable part of daily life in both urban and rural Uganda. Yet, for those who ride them, life is often challenging because a single illness or accident can mean days without income, and for many, unexpected medical expenses can be devastating as well.In Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko District, a group of boda boda riders has taken a bold step to change that reality. In 2016, 26 young riders started a savings initiative that has now blossomed into a thriving financial safety net providing loans to its members. The Bweramule Youth Boda Boda Association has now grown to 76 members (11 women, 65 men) who are redefining how informal workers prepare for medical emergencies through embracing saving for health in their group.The groups chairperson said that for years, when one of their fellow riders fell ill, the group would struggle to raise funds from among the riders, often with little success. “People wanted to help, but since emergencies are unpredictable, many couldn’t contribute at short notice.” He said.That all changed in November 2023 when Onesmo, a Village Health Team member (ambassador) trained by Enabel, introduced the concept of saving specifically for health to the group members. Through a series of financial education trainings, members realized that by setting aside small amounts consistently, they could create a dependable emergency fund for medical emergencies. Today, 56 members actively contribute to the health savings fund, and together, they have already saved 2,862,400 UGX for health. Unlike traditional loans, the health savings fund in the Village Savings and Loans Associations allows members to borrow interest-free in times of need. “Just last month, 80,000 UGX was borrowed from the fund to cover medical expenses,” says the association’s treasurer. “Now, instead of struggling to mobilize emergency contributions, members can access money quickly and focus on getting better”, he added.Beyond emergency care, the fund is addressing a major challenge faced by many rural Ugandans, such as drug shortages in government health centres. With their savings, members can now purchase necessary prescribed medications from private pharmacies, ensuring they receive timely treatment. While boda boda riding is the primary income source for most of the group members, the association is also empowering its female members, many of whom run small retail businesses, selling agricultural produce and fish. With their growing savings culture, the group has ambitious plans, including opening a motorcycle spare parts and repair business, constructing rental properties for additional income, and providing motorcycles on loan on a rotational basis to members who don’t own one yet. The chairperson said that their goal is to make sure every member owns a motorcycle. “Owning a bike means financial stability, and financial stability means more income and savings”, he proudly said.The association is also looking ahead by encouraging more community members to join village savings and loan associations (VSLAs), especially those that are actively saving for health. “One day, we hope every group member can save at least 10,000 UGX weekly for their health,” added the chairperson.
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A Ugandan village overcomes health barriers through saving for health
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
When expectant mother Basemera Teddy needed urgent medical care, she faced a difficult choice—walk miles to the nearest clinic or pay an expensive motorcycle fare. Like many in her village, she could not afford the transport. But a new savings initiative is changing that.For years, the people of Kyotuha village have struggled to reach medical care. The closest health center is miles away, and without transport, many have had no choice but to suffer in silence. In 2021, they formed Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association, initially to create opportunities to access affordable credit for small businesses like petty trade and cattle keeping. However, their impact has now gone beyond individual livelihoods.With profits from their loaned funds, they took it upon themselves to construct a simple makeshift bridge, solving a long-standing access challenge for pedestrians and motorcycle riders in the village. This act of collective effort is just one example of how they are transforming their community so that residents have access to key services, including health.Basemera Teddy recalls the heartbreaking loss of a newborn when a mother was forced to rely on a traditional birth attendant due to the challenge of reaching trained medical professionals in time. In another instance, an expectant mother gave birth to twins in the hands of unqualified community members after failing to reach the health center in time. Though the children survived, they continue to suffer from frequent health complications linked to their birth conditions.Recognizing the urgency of access to healthcare, the group embraced financial training from Kasangaki Edward, a community Village Health Team worker trained by Enabel, in September 2023 under the Social Protection and Decent Work Project. Inspired by the knowledge gained, all 33 members (17 women and 16 men) began saving specifically for health expenses. To date, they have accumulated 8,000,000 UGX in their group health savings account. Initially, the group had set a fixed weekly savings contribution between 2,000 and 5,000 UGX per member. However, as Chairperson Mukume Robert explains, they soon realized that it affected some members who faced fluctuating incomes. “We decided to let people save what they can. Someone may put in 2,000 UGX today and then bring 7,000 UGX the following week. This flexibility has been a game-changer,” he said.Already, the fund is making a difference. Five members have borrowed a total of 1,000,000 UGX to cover medical costs, with three of them successfully repaying 700,000 UGX within a month. The ability to access healthcare without sinking into debt or relying on uncertain sources of money is empowering for these villagers.Among the savers are four expectant mothers who have collectively saved 734,000 UGX, ensuring they can afford transport and medical care when it is time for them to give birth. Kajumba Joselyne, one of the pregnant women, shares her relief. “With my savings, I will be able to afford transport to the health center and buy clothes for my baby,” she says with a hopeful smile. Looking ahead, the group has ambitious plans. They aim to venture into goat rearing as an additional income-generating activity. But their most critical goal is to purchase a motorcycle for emergency medical transportation. “Given the current state of our roads, a motorcycle is the fastest and most reliable way to transport people to the health center, so we plan to buy one as a group”, explains Mukume Robert.
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How beekeepers in Uganda are saving for health
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
In the rural district of Ntoroko, Uganda, groups of young beekeepers found an unexpected way to protect their health—by saving through honey production. What began as a small business in 2017 has grown into a lifeline for medical emergencies.The Nombe Beekeepers Group, in Nombe sub-county, Ntoroko district, was started after Mutalinga George, the group chairperson, completed a 3 months training in beekeeping from Bunyangabu Beekeepers Cooperative. “After completing the training, I trained 6 more youth in beekeeping to start the group together”, said George. Now with 28 members (13 men and 15 women), the group has trained 150 youth in beekeeping. They supply honey, wax, and propolis while managing 111 beehives to support the growing local market. Inspired by the training conducted by Kyakima Hopeman, a Village Health Team member trained by Enabel, 12 members of the group took the first step toward financial security by saving money specifically for medical emergencies. Today, the number of group members saving for health has grown to 22 members (13 women and 9 men), who are now actively contributing to the health emergency fund every week.Each member deposits 1,000 UGX into the fund every week, an amount that, while modest, has already accumulated to an impressive 808,000 UGX. “Last month, one member was able to access 200,000 UGX for urgent medical care, and successfully repaid the loan”, said George, the group chairperson.With government health centres often facing drug shortages, overcrowding at health centers, and high costs of referrals, the members of Nombe Beekeepers Savings and Loans Association can afford to access facilities timely and buy medicine in case they can not find them at the public facilities. Mutalinga George, the group’s chairperson, said that saving for health shields members from financial shocks and ensures they get the care they need when they are sick.To boost their sources of income, the group plans to expand their income-generating activities beyond beekeeping and savings, venturing into poultry farming and brickmaking. They intend to grow their health savings fund and provide even more support for their members. Additionally, they aim to double their weekly health savings contribution from 1,000 UGX to 2,000 UGX per member.At their next annual general meeting, they plan to make saving for health a compulsory weekly contribution, ensuring that every current and future member participates in saving for health.
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Fin de mission réussie pour Issa Moussa Hama, doyen d’Enabel Mauritanie
Aminata KANE | 09/06/2025
C’est une page importante qui se tourne pour Enabel en Mauritanie. Après plusieurs années d’engagement, d’expertise et de transmission, Issa Moussa Hama, Expert sectoriel & thématique – Expert en Ressources Humaines en Santé, nous quitte pour une nouvelle étape de son parcours.Doyen de notre équipe, Issa est reconnu pour sa grande rigueur, son immense gentillesse, sa discrétion et sa profonde humanité. Son rôle a été central dans le renforcement des capacités humaines du système de santé mauritanien, à travers une approche stratégique, participative et toujours respectueuse des acteurs en place.Toujours disponible pour orienter, accompagner, relire ou simplement encourager, Issa laisse derrière lui un exemple inspirant de professionnalisme et d’humilité. Son départ marque la fin d’une époque, mais son empreinte restera longtemps dans les esprits comme sur les projets.Un chaleureux pot d’au revoir a été organisé en son honneur, réunissant collègues et partenaires pour saluer une carrière au service de l’humain. Merci Issa pour tout ce que tu as apporté. Bonne continuation dans cette nouvelle étape !
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A New Chapter for Uganda’s Tourism: UHTTI and Enabel Sign Strategic Grant Agreement
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 08/06/2025
On May 28, 2025, a major milestone was achieved in Uganda’s journey towards becoming a leading tourism destination in Africa. The Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) and Enabel, the Belgian agency for international cooperation, signed a €260,000 grant agreement to enhance skills development in the tourism and hospitality sector. The grant marks a significant step forward in transforming UHTTI into a Centre of Excellence for tourism and hospitality training in Uganda. With the growing importance of the sector—contributing 6.6% to the national GDP and supporting over 800,000 jobs—this investment is timely and strategic. This partnership is not just about funding—it represents a deep commitment to capacity building, digital transformation, industry collaboration, and youth empowerment. Representing the Embassy of Belgium, Luc Pirson, the Head of Cooperation emphasised Belgium’s recognition of Uganda’s unique tourism potential: “It is not only about game parks with elephants and lions, not only about the gorillas. Uganda is also mountaineering, white water rafting, adventurous bicycle tours, birding, the source of the Nile, discovering unknown cultures, coffee and tea farming.” He highlighted Belgium’s multi-pronged support to the sector, including investments in virtual reality tools for promoting Uganda abroad, sustainable tourism certifications, skills training for over 2,500 youth, and support to institutions like UHTTI and the Millennium Business School. Belgium, through Enabel and with additional EU funding, is investing over €3 million in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality industry under its flagship WeWork and Decent Work programmes. The goal: equip young Ugandans with the skills and experience needed for decent, green, and sustainable jobs. Hon. Tom Butime, Uganda’s Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, underscored the significance of the agreement: “The grant signing agreement we're witnessing today is more than just a formal gesture; it represents a tangible commitment to empowering Uganda's tourism sector through enhanced training and capacity development.” The grant’s focus areas The €260,000 grant (UGX 1.1 billion) will directly support several strategic areas: Digitalisation – Transforming UHTTI’s learning environment and operations to match global tourism standards. Staff Capacity Building – Enhancing teaching quality through training programs and workshops. Curriculum Development – Aligning curricula with international best practices to ensure graduate employability. Industry Linkages – Facilitating partnerships that provide students with internships, placements, and real-world experience. This partnership also opens doors to collaboration with institutions like Hotel School Koksijde in Belgium, enabling international knowledge exchange and exposure for trainers and students alike. It is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between Uganda and Belgium and their shared vision for sustainable, inclusive development. Enabel’s collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and key players in the private sector signals a holistic approach to unlocking the potential of tourism as a driver for jobs and prosperity. As Uganda continues to position itself as the Pearl of Africa, this new chapter with UHTTI and Enabel demonstrates that with the right investments in skills and partnerships, tourism can indeed be a pathway to national transformation.
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Unlocking Decent Work and Social Protection for Uganda’s Informal Workers
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 08/06/2025
In Uganda’s bustling markets, verdant farms, and growing tourism hotspots, a quiet but powerful transformation is underway—one that aims to uplift millions of workers who have long laboured without a safety net or voice. A new initiative by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), in partnership with Enabel (the Belgian development agency), is striving to turn the tide on poor working conditions and limited social protection in the agriculture, tourism, and hospitality sectors of the Albertine-Rwenzori region. The Problem: Millions Working Without a Net Uganda’s informal economy is massive, employing more than 90% of the working population. Yet only 3.1% of Ugandans are covered by even one form of social protection. Women—especially those in agriculture and hospitality—are disproportionately left behind, often juggling unpaid care work, informal jobs, and zero workplace benefits. For most, there’s no maternity leave, no pension, no recourse in case of workplace injuries. While the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) exists to offer a savings-based cushion, it covers just 5% of Uganda’s working-age population. The 2022 legal amendment that allows informal workers to voluntarily join NSSF marks progress, but much more remains to be done—particularly in raising awareness and facilitating enrollment. The Response: Building Systems That Include Everyone The new two-year project led by ILO and supported by Enabel is designed to address these structural challenges head-on. It focuses on building a culture of decent work and extending social protection to workers who’ve traditionally been excluded. The project is structured around five interconnected pillars: Fundamental Rights at Work: Training thousands of workers, union leaders, and employers in labour rights, freedom of association, workplace safety, and gender and disability inclusion. Through a cascade model of training-of-trainers (ToTs), this knowledge will ripple out to thousands more. Social Protection Access: Partnering with NSSF and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to roll out voluntary contribution schemes, targeting informal workers in tourism, agriculture, and hospitality. This includes sensitisation campaigns and capacity-building for NSSF outreach teams. Social Dialogue: Empowering women’s organizations, trade unions, and employer associations to advocate for improved working conditions. Special attention will be given to elevating female voices in leadership and strengthening negotiation and organizational skills. Labour Productivity: Supporting the national Productivity Task Force through capacity-building and evidence-based policy development to improve national labour productivity and create more decent jobs. Policy and System Strengthening: Aligning efforts with Uganda’s Vision 2040, National Social Protection Strategy (2023–2028), and the Decent Work Country Programme (2024–2028), ensuring that every intervention contributes to national goals. “This initiative focuses on sectors vital for inclusive growth but still facing significant challenges,” noted Tom Vanneste, Resident Representative of Enabel in Uganda, at the project’s launch. “We’re not just funding activities—we’re shaping a long-term shift by uniting our field presence with ILO’s technical leadership.” Indeed, the collaboration builds on years of groundwork: from drafting employment and apprenticeship regulations to training MPs and Labour Advisory Boards on the importance of decent work. What’s different now is the speed, focus, and scale. What’s Next: Making Rights Real The project aims to directly benefit thousands of workers and indirectly uplift entire communities across the Albertine-Rwenzori region. Women and youth, especially those in precarious employment, are at the heart of the intervention. By leveraging Uganda’s national frameworks and the ILO’s global expertise, the initiative is charting a path toward more inclusive, fair, and sustainable livelihoods. With strong stakeholder engagement—from farmers and hotel owners to district labour officers and national policymakers—this initiative is more than a policy; it's a movement. Because decent work should never be a privilege—it should be a right.
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Empowering African innovation: public innovations selected to scale their impact
Alice BONJEAN | 06/06/2025
As part of the Digital and Green Innovation Action, the Enabel Innovation Hub is implementing the Call for Proposals on Scaling Digital and Green Innovations in Africa. Through a combination of grants and capacity building, the Innovation Hub supports not-for-profit and public stakeholders in designing and implementing data-driven digital solutions to address pressing social challenges. By bridging digital divides—whether urban-rural, gender-based, or generational—the programme aims to strengthen data-informed decision-making and policymaking. Digital and Green Innovations (DGIs) refer to solutions that harness digital tools or technologies to deliver measurable contributions to at least one of the following environmental objectives: Climate adaptation, resilience, or mitigation Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems Sustainable use and preservation of water and maritime resources Pollution prevention and reduction Resource efficiency Systemic transitions such as the circular economy In this context, digital technologies are not ends in themselves, but instruments for tackling societal challenges and delivering sustainable social and economic impact within planetary boundaries. This Call for Proposals will focus particularly on DGIs aligned with the thematic priorities set by Enabel and its implementing partners under the DGI Joint Action, as well as with the strategic objectives of Enabel’s Country Portfolios.Meet the 5 winners supported for 14 months by Enabel Innovation HubAgritech Moloni, Democratic Republic of the Congo Agritech Moloni is an innovative digital platform that provides Congolese farmers with real-time information on weather, market prices, and sustainable practices tailored to their profile, location, and specific crops. Accessible via SMS and USSD, it promotes digital inclusion even in remote rural areas. The AgriTech Moloni project advocates for sustainable farming practices and aims to increase production while protecting natural resources and strengthening food security.Digi-Tide, Tanzania Digi-Tide is a collaboration of ABALOBI and HIVA-KULeuven, combining social entrepreneurial and academic expertise. After South-Africa and Kenya, this project brings the ABALOBI digital platform to Tanzania, including a mobile app for each fisher to use with individual logbook, a marketplace platform, and a monitor platform. Digi-Tide aims to support small-scale fisheries become greener, digital, and more sustainable. It also facilitates peer learning and builds capacity and networks among Beach Management Units, fishing communities, education actors and other stakeholders in Tanga and Pemba. Digi-Tide will inform and share insights on the Tanzania local fishing sector through videographics based on the project’s ethnographic component.Tap & Track, Uganda The Tap&Track project wants to digitise and formalise rural water systems in Uganda, allowing for more efficient and greener water supply. Practica and GOAL will roll out the Tap&Track system to selected Ugandan Area Service Providers (ASP) – managing handpumps in rural areas – and Umbrella authorities of Water & Sanitation (WatSan) – managing small-scale piped water schemes. Through a web dashboard and a mobile application, these ASP’s and WatSan’s and their caretakers staff, will be able to optimise the financial and technical performance of their drinking water systems, while at the same time greening their operations. Through training and capacity building, the project will especially empower young and female caretakers.DeltaSense, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania and Mozambique DeltaSense uses advanced satellite data technologies, validated on the ground by local research institutions, to map and track landscape changes around African lakes. This environmental monitoring, with information available through an open-source remote sensing web platform, is expected to enable authorities and local communities to take action to preserve essential ecosystem services and strengthen their resilience.SAMAD, Benin Access Agriculture’s learning videos in local languages will be made available in a mobile App and through solar-powered smart projectors deployed by grass-roots entrepreneurs, in order to increase the use of agroecology farming techniques. An evidence-based strategy to expand this innovation in Benin and beyond will be developed by engaging multiple stakeholders and collecting end-user feedback.
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One week in Kampala - Driving digital innovation forward
Alice BONJEAN | 06/06/2025
The Team Europe Data Governance in Africa Initiative and the Digital and Green Innovation Action (DGI) support data-driven and digital innovations in public service, academia, civic engagement and social enterprises. The initiatives gathered innovators in Kampala to shape the future of a sustainable and digital world.A week of reflection, strategy, and shared energyFrom 7 to 11 April 2025, the Enabel Innovation Hub hosted a five-day bootcamp that brought together 21 forward-thinking innovation teams from across Africa. These teams are tackling real-world challenges (from plastic waste and child malnutrition to digital education and clean air) with creative, tech-powered solutions. Throughout the bootcamp, innovators from the Digital and Green Innovation Action and Data Governance in Africa initiatives worked side-by-side to design and scale better solutions. The bootcamp offered a mix of practical exercises, field visits, expert-led sessions and peer reflection, giving participants the time and space to step back and reassess the long-term vision of their scaling pathways. “This wasn’t just a training, it was a shift in how we think about growth,” - said one of the participants. Over the five days, participants explored key themes such as, How to plan for scale and long-term impactBuilding partnerships that lastFinding sustainable financing pathwaysA fresh approach to innovation using behavioural science, guided by experts from Brink These sessions were built around real-world problem-solving, peer exchange, and actionable insights, creating a collective momentum towards solving our current pressing problems. Axelle Callewier, Knowledge Management Officer at Enabel Innovation Hub, explained this best as “The energy in the room was undeniable and it’s incredibly rewarding to feel the collective momentum within this dynamic group of innovators.” Looking ahead This bootcamp in Kampala catalysed collaboration, strategic thinking, and inspiration. As the projects and their implementing partners continue to support innovation across Africa and the world, boot camps like these are critical in nourishing the social innovation ecosystem and scaling solutions that truly matter. More on the Digital and Green Innovation ActionThe Digital and Green Innovation (DGI) project is a Team Europe initiative uniting the European Union, Germany, France, Belgium, Estonia and the Netherlands. The Digital and Green Innovation Action (DGI) is designed to accelerate digital and green innovation in Africa, Asia and Latin America. It offers tailored support to innovators, facilitates stakeholder events, and organises targeted finance matchmaking to foster collaboration and investment.
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Empowering African innovation: public innovations selected to scale their impact
Alice BONJEAN | 06/06/2025
Through grants and capacity building, the Enabel Innovation Hub enables not-for-profit and public stakeholders to implement data-driven digital solutions to social challenges by bridging digital divides in urban/rural, gender, and youth. Ultimately, the programme improves the quality of decision-making and policy-making using data. Fostering data-driven innovationThe Enabel Innovation Hub, under Team Europe's Data Governance in Africa Initiative aims to identify and support the scaling of Digital Social Innovations (DSIs) in Africa implemented by public institutions, academia, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Social Enterprises. The programme began with a Call for Proposals in April 2024, inviting African not-for-profit and public stakeholders to submit proposals for innovations that close existing digital divides/gaps (e.g., urban/rural, gender, youth, etc.) in E-health, digital inclusion, climate change, and governance. 117 applications were received from about 20 African countries by the May deadline. After a rigorous selection process the following public sector DSIs were selected for their strong potential in innovation, societal impact, scalability, and cross-border reach. Aligned with the initiative’s objectives, each selected DSI will have the opportunity to refine strategies, explore sustainable finance and partnerships to scale their project for impact through expert guidance, peer exchange and workshops.Meet the 6 winners supported by Enabel Innovation HubScaling iKnowFarm, Uganda Implemented by Welthungerhilfe (WHH), Scaling iKnowFarm is a data-driven app revolutionising agriculture in Uganda through its climate-smart approaches. By providing farmers with real-time insights, expert guidance, and market access, iKnowFarm drives sustainable farming practices and fosters economic growth across Uganda.MICE-RIoT, South Africa Implemented by Planact, the MICE-RIoT (Monitoring Indoor Climate Extremes involving Residents and IoT) project harnesses IoT technology to monitor indoor climate conditions in informal settlements in South Africa. By using wireless sensors, it collects and analyses real-time data on indoor heat levels, empowering residents to address health risks and advocate for improved housing. The system includes community training, data visualisation dashboards, and policy advocacy, intending to influence housing regulations to enhance climate resilience. This scalable, open-source solution combines community-driven insights with technological innovation, promoting sustainable housing practices and improving living conditions for vulnerable populations exposed to extreme heat.Citizen Science for Water Management (Mozambique, Botswana, South Africa) International Water Management Institute (IWMI) ‘s Citizen Science Initiative in the Limpopo River Basin aims to empower local communities to manage their water resources actively. By providing user-friendly tools such as MiniSASS and clarity tubes, along with AI-driven monitoring systems, the initiative enables residents to collect essential data on water quality and flow. This data will be uploaded to a central digital platform, analysed, and integrated into a Digital Twin of the river basin. The insights gained from this real-time data will support decision-makers, improve water management practices, and promote the sustainable protection of this vital ecosystem for future generations.FAIR (Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa) The Europe External Programme with Africa (EEPA) provides interoperable, secure datapods that enable the safe storage and analysis of refugee data, enhancing rapid responses to human rights abuses. Built on open-source technology and aligned with the FAIR principles – Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable – these datapods prioritise data privacy and ownership while enabling insightful analysis. Through co-created user interfaces and comprehensive training, EEPA empowers humanitarian organisations to protect vulnerable communities and advocate effectively for their rights.REC Maternity, Guinea Since 2019, Terre des Hommes (TdH) has been deploying a decision-support tool called REC Maternity. This tool aims to improve the quality of care for mothers and newborns. By 2026, the governance of data collected through the use of this tool will be strengthened, enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses, protecting patients, and informing decision-makers. Integrated into the national health system, this initiative prepares for a sustainable and responsible scaling-up of REC Maternity in Guinea and across Africa, thereby contributing to strengthening data governance on the continent.RADAR, Benin, Democratic Republic of the Congo Implemented by Handicap International, RADAR is an innovation that focuses on the implementation of the Rehabilitation module within the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) in Benin and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This open-source software is customised to collect, analyse, and visualise rehabilitation data, integrating key indicators to strengthen health information systems. By facilitating routine monitoring and supporting data-driven decision-making, the project aims to enhance rehabilitation services. It emphasizes local engagement, the training of healthcare professionals, and alignment with existing health infrastructures and policies, ensuring sustainability and scalability across Africa.
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One week in Kampala - Driving digital innovation forward
Alice BONJEAN | 06/06/2025
The Team Europe Data Governance in Africa Initiative and the Digital and Green Innovation Action (DGI) support data-driven and digital innovations in public service, academia, civic engagement and social enterprises. The initiatives gathered innovators in Kampala to shape the future of a sustainable and digital world.A week of reflection, strategy, and shared energyFrom 7 to 11 April 2025, the Enabel Innovation Hub hosted a five-day bootcamp that brought together 21 forward-thinking innovation teams from across Africa. These teams are tackling real-world challenges (from plastic waste and child malnutrition to digital education and clean air) with creative, tech-powered solutions. Throughout the bootcamp, innovators from the Digital and Green Innovation Action and Data Governance in Africa initiatives worked side-by-side to design and scale better solutions. The bootcamp offered a mix of practical exercises, field visits, expert-led sessions and peer reflection, giving participants the time and space to step back and reassess the long-term vision of their scaling pathways. “This wasn’t just a training—it was a shift in how we think about growth,” - said one of the participants. Over the five days, participants explored key themes such as, How to plan for scale and long-term impactBuilding partnerships that lastFinding sustainable financing pathwaysA fresh approach to innovation using behavioural science, guided by experts from Brink These sessions were built around real-world problem-solving, peer exchange, and actionable insights, creating a collective momentum towards solving our current pressing problems. Axelle Callewier, Knowledge Management Officer at Enabel Innovation Hub, explained this best as “The energy in the room was undeniable and it’s incredibly rewarding to feel the collective momentum within this dynamic group of innovators.” Looking ahead This bootcamp in Kampala catalysed collaboration, strategic thinking, and inspiration. As the projects and their implementing partners continue to support innovation across Africa and the world, bootcamps like these are critical in nourishing the social innovation ecosystem and scaling solutions that truly matter. More on the Data Governance in Africa Initiative The Team Europe Data Governance in Africa Initiative is implemented with the financial support of the European Union and Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France and Germany as part of the EU Global Gateway Strategy. It supports the African Union (AU) and its Member States in creating human-centric, development-focused data policies at all levels, aiming to harmonize regulations, enable cross-border data flows, and promote investment in secure and sustainable data infrastructure to support a single digital market in Africa.
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Journée mondiale de l’environnement : Enabel et le Centre-Est unis contre le péril plastique
Wendpouiré Julien NANA | 05/06/2025
Le 5 juin 2025, à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de l’environnement, la région du Centre-Est, précisément la ville de Tenkodogo, a marqué une étape importante dans la lutte contre la pollution plastique, sous le thème : « Lutte contre la pollution plastique ». Cette journée a été organisée dans le cadre du portefeuille de coopération bilatérale Burkina-Belgique, avec l’appui de l’Agence belge de coopération internationale – Enabel, en partenariat avec la Direction Régionale de l’Eau, de l’Environnement et de l’Assainissement du Centre-Est (DREAE-CES).Tôt le matin, une opération de salubrité s’est tenue à la gare routière de Tenkodogo, mobilisant autorités communales, associations de collecte des déchets, transporteurs, et comités de gestion (COGES). À cette occasion, Enabel a procédé à la remise symbolique d’un lot de kits de nettoyage (brouettes, gants, pelles, râteaux) au comité de gestion de la gare, en soutien à la dynamique locale d’assainissement.Présent à la cérémonie, le Gouverneur de la région du Centre-Est, le Colonel Aboudou Karim Lamizana, a salué l’engagement collectif et a rappelé l’appel du Président du Faso, le Capitaine Ibrahim Traoré, à maintenir nos cadres de vie propres. De son côté, M. Pamoussa G. Ouesséni KAFANDO, Directeur Régional de l’Eau, de l’Assainissement et de l’Environnement du Centre-Est, a clôturé son discours par une déclaration inspirante : « Ensemble, faisons de notre région un exemple de leadership écologique, pour aujourd'hui et pour les générations futures. J'invite donc à vivre utile et responsable pour profiter des largesses de la nature. »Une conférence-débat à l’Université de Tenkodogo autour de la loi 045 interdisant les sachets plastiques a été programmée à une date ultérieure et s’inscrit dans la continuité des actions de sensibilisation prévues par les acteurs locaux et les partenaires.À travers cette journée, les autorités régionales, Enabel, les communes et les citoyens ont rappelé l’urgence de renforcer les efforts collectifs en matière d’assainissement et de gestion des déchets. Le combat contre le plastique ne s’arrête pas à une journée : il se construit au quotidien, dans chaque action individuelle et chaque politique locale.NANA Wendpouiré Julien Florantin
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Mobilité humaine : les partenaires du projet AMIS tiennent un atelier de diagnostic
Jacques LENO | 04/06/2025
L’équipe du projet Accompagnement, Mobilité, Insertion et Sensibilisation (AMIS) financé par l’Union européenne et mis en œuvre par Enabel, a tenu du 2 au 3 juin, un atelier de diagnostic à Conakry. Cette rencontre de réflexion, organisée en étroite collaboration avec la Direction Générale des Guinéens établis à l’Etranger, a réuni les cadres techniques des départements ministériels concernés par la politique de migration de la Guinée, les organisations de la société civile, les ONGs internationales et les représentant·es du secteur privé. Objectif : comprendre les pratiques existantes et souhaitables, en vue de renforcer les approches durables à la (ré)intégration des personnes migrantes de retour, des jeunes, femmes et personnes en situation de handicap. Pendant deux jours d’intenses travaux, les participant·es sont parvenus à :Produire la cartographie des structures, selon leurs rôles (gouvernance, appui technique, insertion socio-professionnelle et accompagnement financier) Faire l’analyse SWOT (forces, faiblesses, opportunités et menaces) de leurs propres structures et axes d'intervention, en tenant compte de leurs capacités propres et de l’écosystème guinéen ; Proposer des stratégies d’actions que le projet AMIS devraient aider à réaliser.La rencontre a permis de comprendre:L’existence des politiques nationales de Migration, de l’Emploi et la stratégie nationale de l’Emploi jeune; Les trois documents sont complémentaires et prennent en charge la problématique de l’insertion socioprofessionnelle;Le projet AMIS vise à appuyer la mise en œuvre de certains aspects clés de ces trois politiques. Prochaine étape : l’organisation du 16 au 20 juin prochain, des ateliers de diagnostic à Mamou et à Kindia, zones d’intervention du projet.
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Champs Écoles Paysans : Une Stratégie Collaborative entre Enabel et la DGPV pour l'avenir agricole du Burkina Faso
Geoffroy ZONGO | 03/06/2025
Le 27 mai 2025, Zorgho a abrité un atelier de cadrage et de planification des activités du projet Champs Écoles des Producteurs (CEP), organisé par la Direction Générale des Productions Végétales (DGPV) du Ministère de l’Agriculture des Ressources Animales et Halieutiques (MARAH) dans le cadre de sa collaboration avec l’Agence belge de coopération internationale, Enabel. Cet événement a rassemblé une vingtaine de participant.es chargés de la mise en œuvre des activités sur le terrain ainsi que d'autres acteurs clés du secteur agricole. L'atelier avait pour objectif de favoriser l'appropriation des actions et de faciliter la planification des activités liées à la mise en place des Champs Écoles des Producteurs. Il visait également à lancer une réflexion sur les performances des CEP au Burkina Faso, ainsi que sur le mécanisme de vulgarisation, en identifiant ses forces et ses faiblesses. Parmi les résultats obtenus, une clarification des rôles et responsabilités de chaque acteur a été réalisée, avec un consensus sur les mécanismes de coordination entre les différentes parties prenantes. Un calendrier opérationnel a été élaboré, intégrant les priorités et contraintes des différents acteurs. De plus, les ressources nécessaires à la mise en œuvre des CEP ont été identifiées, et une stratégie de communication a été définie pour favoriser la transparence et l'engagement. Enfin, un mécanisme de suivi a été établi, incluant des indicateurs de performance clairs pour évaluer l'avancement des activités.Cet atelier a également permis aux acteurs de lancer une réflexion en faveur de l’amélioration des pratiques des Champs Écoles des producteurs. Les discussions ont porté sur l'analyse des facteurs de durabilité, notamment l'introduction de l'Approche CEP dans les curricula de formation des universités et des centres de formation agricole. La création d’un cadre de concertation national entre les utilisateurs des CEP a été proposée pour harmoniser les interventions et mutualiser les ressources. L'adoption d'un document de référence national sur les CEP, ainsi qu'un cahier des charges, permettrait d’assurer la qualité des interventions sur le terrain pour les champs écoles ne soient plus vus uniquement comme des outils de vulgarisation, mais comme des leviers de développement durable.En somme, cet atelier de cadrage et de planification représente une étape cruciale pour la révision du guide pratique de mise en place et conduite des CEP au Burkina Faso. En collaboration avec la DGPV, Enabel et les DRARAH, 60 CEP sont planifiés, dont 30 en campagne humide et 30 en campagne sèche, répartis sur trois communes de la province du Boulgou, sept communes dans la province du Kouritenga et deux communes dans la province du Ganzourgou. Au moins 30 facilitateurs·trices CEP seront formés et outillés pour la conduite des CEP, et au moins 15 producteurs·trices leaders seront évalués et certifiés à la fin du processus.Ensemble, Enabel et ses partenaires travaillent pour un avenir agricole durable et prospère au Burkina Faso, en mettant en œuvre des solutions concrètes qui répondent aux défis actuels du secteur agricole.
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Innovation dans la gestion des données sanitaires au niveau du District sanitaire de Dédougou
Geoffroy ZONGO | 03/06/2025
Dédougou, lundi 28 Avril 2025 – Le district sanitaire de Dédougou a franchi une nouvelle étape dans la gestion des données de santé à travers une formation des Infirmier·è·s Chef·taine·s de Poste (ICP) sur l’outil ENDOS-BF (Entrepôt National des Données Sanitaires du Burkina Faso), organisée du 28 au 30 avril 2025. Accompagnée par l’Agence belge de coopération internationale (Enabel) dans le cadre du projet "Lasso Santé" sur financement de l’Union européenne, cette initiative vise à améliorer la qualité des services de santé grâce à des prises de décisions au niveau périphérique basées sur les données collectées. Cette action constitue un réel investissement stratégique pour des données transformées en actionsAu nombre de 54, les Infirmier·è·s Chef·taine·s de Poste du district sanitaire de Dédougou ont pu approfondir leur maîtrise du logiciel DHIS2, cœur du système ENDOS-BF. L’accent a été mis sur l’analyse prédictive et l’exploitation proactive des données, une première dans la région selon les participant·e·s. "Nous passons d’une simple collecte à une interprétation stratégique des indicateurs, comme les tendances épidémiologiques ou les besoins en médicaments", souligne Madame le Médecin Chef du district, présente tout le long de l’atelier.La formation s’est distinguée par son volet analytique avancé : les ICP apprennent désormais à générer des rapports automatisés et à utiliser des tableaux de bord interactifs pour cibler les interventions. " C’est une révolution dans notre quotidien. Nous pouvons anticiper des crises, comme les pics de paludisme, et ajuster nos ressources en temps réel ", témoigne un participant.Piloté par les experts du SISSE (service de l’information sanitaire et de la surveillance épidémiologique) du district et de la Direction Régionale de la Santé, cette formation s’inscrit dans le plan national de digitalisation du Burkina Faso. Enabel à travers le projet « Lasso santé », y voit un levier pour renforcer le système de santé.
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Fin de mission pour Daniel Binart : un au revoir riche en émotions et en reconnaissance
Aminata KANE | 03/06/2025
Ce 3 juin, l’équipe d’Enabel Mauritanie a chaleureusement salué le départ de Daniel Binart Project Manager du RIMDIR et RIMFIL, qui termine sa mission en Mauritanie. Arrivé à une époque où le développement rural était encore embryonnaire, Daniel aura contribué – avec rigueur, engagement et humanité – à structurer des filières clés et à poser des bases solides pour l’avenir.« Ce n'était pas un long fleuve tranquille, mais grâce à des collaborations franches, nous avons franchi bien des étapes. Je pars enrichi, professionnellement et humainement. »Sous sa coordination, des résultats concrets ont été atteints : plus de 34 000 personnes ont désormais accès à l’eau potable, près de 8 800 ménages disposent de terres sécurisées, 3 000 hectares ont été aménagés, 7 700 emplois ruraux ont été créés ou consolidés, plus de 450 facilitateurs CEP ont été formés, et plus de 11 000 producteurs et éleveurs ont bénéficié de services d’appui-conseil. Le revenu moyen des entrepreneurs ruraux a augmenté de 11 % en 4 ans. Aujourd’hui, des coopératives sont viables, des agriculteurs sont mieux préparés aux aléas climatiques, et les rendements agricoles ont presque doublé.La Délégation de l'Union européenne a salué « un partenaire fiable, engagé, dont le travail a permis de poser des jalons durables au service des ménages vulnérables ».Merci Daniel pour ton énergie, ta bienveillance et les résultats obtenus avec toutes les équipes ! Une partie de toi restera ici, et une partie de nous part avec toi.
