FAO is proud to announce the publication of a new online version of the trainers’ manual “Empowering rural women to engage in responsible agricultural investments (RAI) in Sierra Leone” is now available on the FAO website. This manual aims to be a valuable tool for developing capacities on responsible investment in agriculture and food systems at the grassroots level.

Access the trainers’ manual here: https://doi.org/10.4060/cc9463en

The manual offers the following:

• Step-by-step methodology: The manual provides a comprehensive methodology that combines different learning approaches to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by rural women, and is inclusive of all, regardless of literacy levels.

• Engaging audiovisual content: Key technical topics are presented through colourful illustrations and video interviews of Sierra Leonean stakeholders. Additionally, a series of animated videos tell the fictional story of three rural women, encouraging trainees to reflect on their personal experiences. The videos are available in English and several local languages (Kono, Krio, Kuranko, Mende, Suosuo and Temne).
• Practical exercises: Tailored exercises and facilitation techniques encourage active participation and enable rural women to apply the acquired knowledge in their own context.

This training methodology can be adopted and adapted by all organizations and institutions working in the context of agricultural investment and the empowerment of rural women.

Since 2022, FAO and Solidaridad West Africa have trained 70 district trainers in this innovative methodology and implemented the RAI training programme across 14 districts, benefiting 438 rural women and 210 local stakeholders.  By replicating this training at district and community levels, the change actors have empowered rural women to actively participate in decision-making processes and raised awareness among local leaders.

In addition to a downloadable PDF version, users can now access the step-by-step guide, including facilitation techniques and audiovisual training materials, directly from their smartphones, tablets or computers.

Explore this valuable resource today and help empower rural women in their journey toward responsible agricultural investments in Sierra Leone!