MADRE, with the local organization Zenab for Women in Development, support the rural Sudanese women farmers with training, supplies and strategies for sustainable farming so they can become more involved in their local communities. To increase sustainability of the project, MADRE’s agronomist teaches agricultural methods along with environmental awareness, small project management and female-specific health & nutrition education. Each year, this project can supply 500 women farmers with tools, organic seeds and fertilizer. MADRE also works with the women to maintain Women Farmers’ Union chapters in ten villages in Al Qadarif state. The union members plan to purchase a tractor and plow so they can plant and harvest more efficiently and generate income by renting the vehicle to area farmers.

Sudanese women produce 80% of the crops but
are excluded from receiving government aid.