Green Jobs for Youth to Respond to the Refugee Crisis in Northern Côte d’Ivoire

The persistence of insecurity in neighbouring countries, particularly in Burkina Faso, has led to population movements in the northern regions of Cote d’Ivoire. By October 2024, the overall number of refugees was by UNHCR reported to have increased to 68,125, with 23,576 refugees located in the region of Tchologo (55% women and 45% men). The Tchologo region has the third highest poverty rate in the country, with almost 63% of people experiencing poverty. Côte d'Ivoire also faces several challenges associated with climate change. Key issues include an increase in average temperatures and increased rainfall variability, which affect agricultural productivity and water resources. Against this background, the proposed project seeks to promote decent employment opportunities to disadvantaged people in the Tchologo Region through the introduction of biochar technology, focusing on youth (women and men). Biochar has been identified as a sustainable and climate-friendly approach to use natural materials to enhance soil health and thereby increase agricultural productivity. The project supports the establishment of at least 24 youth business groups, each composed of 5 young persons (women and men aged 18-40 years), initially making biochar based on cotton stalks collected from farmers in the target region of Tchologo. The project aims to create diverse and sustainable job opportunities for women and men in the form of direct as well as indirect jobs around the biochar production/supply chain and logistics. At the same time, it serves to strengthen social cohesion by encouraging collaboration and mutual understanding between host communities and refugees, reducing tensions and promoting inclusive economic growth. By prioritizing gender-responsive joint activities and encouraging cross-cultural engagement, the project contributes to resilient communities with improved economic and social stability.

Project symbol

CIV/24/02/JPN

Admin unit

CO-Abidjan

Start date

17/03/2025

End date

16/03/2026

Total allocation

922128

Total expenditure

Status

Closed

922128

Development Partners

Japan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Country/Countries

Cote d'Ivoire

Outcomes

Outcome 3: Full and productive employment for just transitions