Nov 29, 2017 | Project

AGEN (Association des Guides et des Eclaireuses du Niger)

Establishment of a production unit for veterinary biotechnology products in Niger

Republic of Niger

Amount: € 117,438.00

Overview

This 2-year project in Niger by AGEN (Association des Guides et des Eclaireuses du Niger) sought to assist women farmers to enter poultry farming, linked to the creation of a biotechnology unit for vaccine production utilising some of the eggs from the poultry farm. The project focused on technology transfer, vaccine creation, and income generation from the sale of eggs. It entailed the building and equipping of a laboratory for vaccine production, the training of female staff, and the construction and stocking of a poultry farm. It thus addressed Aspiration 1 of the African Union's Agenda 2063, which aims to build a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development; and Aspiration 6, where development in Africa is people-driven, unleashing the potential of its women and youth.

Key results

  • AGEN project focused on technology transfer, vaccine creation, and income generation from the sale of eggs. It entailed the building and equipping of a laboratory for vaccine production and the construction and stocking of a poultry farm with 625 laying hens imported from France.
  • Overall this project made good progress towards achieving its main purpose, namely the creation of a biotechnology unit for vaccine production. This facility has contributed to eradicating diseases in cattle and has improved food security. Moreover, the project is a good example of female leadership and an exemplar for other associations of women in Niger.
  • The project also trained 3 female laboratory staff (biologist, immunologist and veterinarian) in vaccine production was undertaken at the Veterinary Central Laboratory in Bamako.