With unwavering determination, Mariama Sonko has made it her life’s mission to drive women’s agricultural initiatives. She firmly believes that food sovereignty begins with rural women and their traditional knowledge. « If we do not organize ourselves and take action, tomorrow we may find ourselves strangers in our own land », she asserts. « That’s why our work focuses on rebuilding the seed capital that is vital for African life and sovereignty. »

Raised by a peasant family, Mariama grew up witnessing the struggles of rural women, especially the near-impossible task of land ownership despite legal rights. « Growing up, I saw so much pressure on women, and it angered me deeply », she recalls.

From struggle to empowerment

Her relentless fight began with a personal tragedy. After her father’s passing, Mariama witnessed her mother’s desperate struggle to feed their ten children. « It was then that, during my first year of high school, I was forced to drop out and marry, as my uncles insisted that a woman’s place was in the home », she shares. « But I refused to surrender. »

At just 19, she secured a plot of land to cultivate with other women—only to face expulsion three years later. Undeterred, she fought for land ownership and achieved it a decade ago: a 3-hectare experimental farm near Ziguinchor. Free from pesticides and reliant solely on local seeds, the farm employs 30 women. « Today, over 100 women have individual bank accounts and are saving money. From their earnings, they invest in additional income-generating activities—this fills me with pride », she beams.

Mariama’s advocacy now spans West Africa. Nous sommes la solution has grown to include 800 associations across 10 countries, empowering 200,000 mostly illiterate women. « I am incredibly proud when I see the progress these women have made », the 59-year-old says with a smile.