The PIJeL programme is implemented by the Andreas Hermes Akademie (AHA) in partnership with ROPPA (Réseau des Organisations Paysannes et de Producteurs de l’Afrique de l’Ouest), the West African network of farmers’ organisations. Its objective is to empower young leaders from ROPPA’s member organisations to take on responsibility, initiate organisational change and contribute to the long-term development of resilient farmers’ organisations. PIJeL is implemented as part of the BMZ-funded Global Project “Strengthening Farmers’ Organisations” (GV StäBO).
The third PIJeL cohort began in April 2026 with its first module in Lomé, the capital of Togo. The 15 participants from nine West African countries then gathered for a one-week second and final module in Thiès, Senegal. Rather than focusing on traditional leadership tools, the programme centred on the development of each participant’s leadership identity. Through self-reflection, group exercises and intensive peer exchange, participants explored their personal values, their behaviour within teams and their role as leaders. They learned how to give and receive feedback, build trust and inspire others to work towards shared goals. Because sustainable leadership is not defined by methods alone, but by the ability to understand oneself and consciously support others.
The programme concluded on 21 July 2026 with a closing ceremony hosted at the premises of FONGS, a network of farmers’ organisations in Senegal, and CNCR, the country’s national umbrella organisation of farmers’ organisations. Together with representatives of the Andreas Hermes Akademie, trainers Cynthia Dakin and Pierre Michel Ernest, and ROPPA Secretary General and CNCR President Nadjirou Sall, the participants celebrated the successful completion of the programme.
