Amidst the arid landscapes and bustling markets of Burkina Faso, lies an aura of resilience and hope. Despite the context of conflict and uncertainty, women remain strong pillars, building bridges of stability. 

Awa Sawadogo, the Gourcy local community President, and her cooperative groups embody the unwavering spirit of women in the Northern region of Burkina Faso. Years of witnessing a seemingly relentless cycle of instability have not diminished her resolve; instead, Awa remains determined not to give in to hopelessness. 

Through collaboration with the local government and the community stabilization members, Awa and fellow women, including IDPs in her community, are on a path of empowerment and resilience-building in Burkina Faso. Through the Liptako-Gourma Regional Stabilization Facility, a programme implemented by UNDP and its partners, Awa participates in initiatives focused on providing immediate support to populations in conflict-affected areas, thereby enabling communities to regain their voices and transform the story of their country. 

A notable achievement is the creation of women-led cooperatives, where Awa and her colleagues build resilience through working together. Working side by side, they produce shea butter, soumbala, and soaps for sale, which provide for their families and support financial autonomy. By working diligently, they sow the foundation of security, grounding their neighbourhoods in the hope of a better tomorrow. 

The resilience of these women extends beyond the productivity of the fields but also in the relationships built in times of trial. Awa joins other women at stabilization committee meetings to exchange stories of challenges and progress which fosters a support network anchored in their shared experiences. 

In the education sector, Awa has assisted several women in making strides and challenging societal norms. Through UNDP-assisted interventions, women in Gourcy have been empowered with the skills needed to overcome obstacles by participating in literacy programmes and vocational training. From various settings, women are stepping forward as catalysts for positive transformation, paving the way for a brighter future for all. 

However, the path to building resilience is filled with challenges, and the future is still uncertain. Awa and her sisters remain resolute amid challenges, their determination unwavering despite the evolving circumstances. 

In Burkina Faso, women are not just survivors but architects of stabilization, shaping a future filled with possibilities rather than shadows of the past. With unwavering determination, they shine a light on the journey to a revitalized community.  Since 2015 Burkina Faso has been facing multidimensional challenges including conflict which in turn has increased the vulnerabilities of women. According to OCHA over 2,062,534 internally displaced persons, including 1,088,050 women facing food insecurity, gender-based violence among other insecurities.