Mission and Vision
WEFACE—Women Empowerment in Food and Agriculture Cooperatives through Enabling Market Access—is a collaborative initiative dedicated to empowering women within Africa’s agricultural and food sectors. Our mission is to provide practical skills, market access support, and resources to women in cooperatives, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and local communities. By fostering an inclusive environment that connects women to essential training, mentorship, and industry networks, WEFACE enables sustainable growth and self-sufficiency across Ethiopia, Senegal, and Tunisia.
Project Background
WEFACE is part of the ‘Training and Job Creation’ action (2023-2026) by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), under Grant Number 57687596. This joint project spans four countries: Hochschule Weihenstephan-Triesdorf (HSWT) from Germany, Arsi University from Ethiopia, Université du Sine Saloum El-Hâdj Ibrahima NIASS (USSEIN) from Senegal, and the University of Gabes from Tunisia. Together, these institutions work to address challenges in African food systems—such as climate resilience, gender inclusivity, and market access—by offering hands-on training and capacity building.
The project’s training units focus on four major areas: Food Processing and Packaging, Logistics and Supply Chain, Women Empowerment, and Food Product Development. In 2023, WEFACE organized a Food Processing and Packaging event in Germany, hosted by HSWT. In 2024, a Logistics and Supply Chain training in Tunisia was hosted by the University of Sanes. Upcoming events include a Women Empowerment training in Senegal, hosted by USSEIN in 2025, and a Food Product Development training in Ethiopia, hosted by Arsi University.
Our Approach
WEFACE’s approach centers around practical, hands-on training and tailored educational resources to meet the unique needs of our participants. We focus on four core areas: Trade, Food Processing and Packaging, Logistics and Supply Chain, and Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture. Through training modules, workshops, and incubation support, WEFACE equips women-led cooperatives and businesses with the skills they need to thrive in competitive markets. Our modules are designed not only to educate but also to connect participants with local and international markets, bridging gaps in knowledge and resources.
Team and Partners
WEFACE is proud to work with a committed team of experts from academic and industry backgrounds. Our partnership network includes institutions like HSWT, Arsi University, USSEIN, and the University of Gabes, each contributing valuable expertise in agriculture, food technology, and sustainable business practices. Together, we are building a community of skilled, empowered women who can drive economic and social progress within their regions.