Kadija Simboro: Leading Innovation and Impact Through Renewable Energy Solutions
“We’ve proven that solutions co-created with communities not only work but thrive.”
These words from Kadija Simboro, Thematic Energy Lead for Practical Action West Africa, embody the essence of the Renewable Energy for Agriculture and Livelihoods in Burkina Faso (REAL-BF) program. At a time when climate challenges are reshaping livelihoods across Africa, Kadija’s leadership in the REAL-BF project has demonstrated the power of renewable energy and participatory approaches to transform lives.
Tackling Climate Challenges Through Co-Creation
In Burkina Faso, where 80% of the population relies on agriculture for their livelihoods, the stakes are high. Farmers face relentless challenges including erratic rainfall, intense heat, and post-harvest losses.
For Kadija, addressing these challenges started with understanding the realities faced by farmers.
“Climate change affects everything,” she explains. “When rains don’t come, farmers lose productivity. When it’s too hot, post-harvest losses soar. For many, it’s not just about surviving the season; it’s about sustaining their families.”
Amidst these trials, innovation and resilience have sparked a transformative movement led by the REAL-BF program.
“Farmers often view technology as out of reach,” Kadija explains. “We broke that barrier by bringing demonstrations directly to the field, showing how these technologies work and can transform their livelihoods.”
Through participatory methods, REAL-BF bridged the gap between farmers and technology providers, ensuring solutions were tailored to the needs of communities while fostering local ownership and understanding.
Redefining Roles, Empowering Women
One of the most significant impacts of REAL-BF has been its role in challenging gender norms in rural communities. Initially, women were hesitant to engage with the technologies, often suggesting that their husbands or sons attend training sessions instead.
“We heard it so many times: ‘This isn’t for us; it’s for men,’” Kadija shares. “But we broke that mindset by putting women at the center. Now, they not only understand the systems but maintain and operate them confidently.”
Kadija highlighted a pivotal shift: communities where women once felt excluded from discussions about technology are now led by women who train others in operating solar systems or maintaining biodigesters.
“This isn’t just about gender inclusion,” she says. “It’s about unleashing the potential of women to lead change.”
Earning Regional Recognition at ESEF 2024
REAL-BF’s impact was celebrated on a regional stage at the ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum (ESEF) 2024, where it won the coveted award for Most Innovative Sustainable Energy Project of the Year. The award recognises projects that demonstrate groundbreaking potential to transform communities through energy solutions.
Additionally, Kadija herself was named the Young Project Developer in Sustainable Energy. Reflecting on this recognition, she shared: “This award is not merely personal; it’s a tribute to the entire team. It validates the long nights, the fieldwork, and the bonds we built with communities. We didn’t just implement a project; we created a movement.”
Scaling Innovation Across Africa
While REAL-BF has made significant strides in four regions of Burkina Faso, Kadija sees enormous potential for replication across Africa. “Although the challenges may vary slightly, the core approach of engaging communities and tailoring solutions to their needs remains universal,” she says.
REAL-BF has also inspired interest from government ministries and other stakeholders, with discussions underway to expand the program to additional regions and value chains. “We’ve shown what’s possible when innovation meets collaboration,” Kadija reflects.
A Call to Action: The Future of Community-Led Solutions
As the REAL-BF program evolves, Kadija has a clear message for decision-makers and stakeholders: Investing in renewable energy for agriculture is not only about tackling climate challenges; it’s about building resilience, empowering communities, and driving systemic change.
She stresses the importance of building solutions from the ground up. “We need to stop designing programs in isolation. Communities hold the answers. When we listen to their needs and co-create with them, the results are extraordinary.”
REAL-BF is more than a project—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and innovation. Its journey is a reminder that meaningful change begins where it matters most: on the ground, with the people driving it forward.
For Kadija, the REAL-BF program reflects the transformative potential of community-driven solutions. From empowering women to showcasing the leadership of young professionals, her work stands as a blueprint for the future of sustainable development in Africa.
