F-Promar
Vocational Training for Vulnerable Youth in Agriculture and Renewable Energy Professions (F-ProMAR)
Benin has a heavily agricultural economy, accounting for 36% of GDP and 88% of export earnings. Despite its favorable climate and the importance of crops such as cotton and cashews, the country is seeking to diversify its economy towards tourism, the green economy, and renewable energy.
The Beninese government is implementing initiatives to promote the professional integration of young people, such as free zones (geographical areas of a country offering tax advantages), digital training, and the F-ProMAR program dedicated to agriculture. The government agency Sèmè City also plays a key role in supporting entrepreneurship and job creation.
Several NGOs and international agencies (GIZ, Enabel, AFD, LuxDev) are supporting these efforts by promoting the creation of sustainable jobs. However, youth unemployment remains high due to the mismatch between vocational training and market needs.
The lack of quality education and insecurity in the north of the country make some young people vulnerable, exposing them to risks such as banditry and radicalization.
Our action
To remedy this situation, the project aims to support 100 vulnerable young people, both men and women, from the eight municipalities of the Borgou department, through a high-quality training program designed to facilitate their entry into the workforce. To this end, it will mobilize and enroll these young people, aged 15 to 35, in the promising sectors of agriculture and renewable energy. The training will be provided on a work-study basis in approved centers, with the aim of awarding Certificates of Professional Qualification (CQP) to 50 young people in each sector.
The initiative will be based on a participatory approach involving the Single Social Protection Counters (GUPS), town halls, and other local actors. Radio awareness campaigns will help optimize support. Particular attention will be paid to the inclusion of young girls, with at least 50% of beneficiaries being female and specific support for young mothers.
The initiative will be based on agreements with training centers and partnerships with local businesses to guarantee practical internships. A dedicated team will provide rigorous monitoring, and the awarding of certificates will mark the completion of the project, thereby promoting the long-term professional integration of the beneficiaries.
Summary
- Duration: June 2025–February 2027
- Project area: Borgou Department (northeast Benin): municipalities of Nikki, Kalalé, Pèrèrè, Bembèrèkè, N’Dali, Parakou, Tchaourou, & Sinendé
- Target audience: 100 vulnerable young people, at least 50% of whom are girls/women
- Operational partners:
- KDK Agricultural Technical High School
- Tchaourou Vocational High School
- Single Social Protection Window (GUPS), town halls, and ATDA/Municipal Units
- Financial partner: GIZ
