In communities around the world, fathers play an important role in creating a future where everyone can thrive.
At The Hunger Project, we know ending hunger takes all of us—women, men, families and entire communities working together. This Father’s Day, we celebrate dads like Yacouba, a farmer, community leader and proud parent in Burkina Faso, whose dedication helped shape a stronger future for his family and village.
A Future Rooted in Possibility
Yacouba lived in Nagréongo, about 40 km from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. At 43 years old, he was a father to 11 children. When asked how he manages such a large family, he laughed.
I am a farmer, and it is farming that allows me to take care of my family.
For Yacouba, providing for his children meant more than meeting the needs of today; it meant investing in tomorrow as well. He ensured each of his children attended school, where they learned to read and write in the national language. One day, Yacouba hopes his children will grow into leaders who can continue strengthening their community—just like their dad.
A Leader for His Family & Community
Yacouba and his family worked together in the fields during the rainy season, growing maize, millet, sorghum and beans. Beyond seasonal farming, Yacouba also grew onions, tomatoes and spices, raised livestock and managed a thriving nursery of tree seedlings.
After engaging with The Hunger Project’s programs, Yacouba expanded his farming knowledge and diversified his income sources, allowing him to continue investing in his family and their community.
Aside from farming his land and caring for the nursery, Yacouba served the larger region in many ways. He acted as president of the Village Committee, supporting the local health clinic and advocating for improved access to medicine and healthcare. He also acted as information officer for the local Nagréongo Epicenter Association. In this role, he organized meetings and shared important updates with nearby villages. The Nagréongo Epicenter declared self-reliance back in 2020, representing years of progress led by Yacouba and his neighbors.
In the several years leading up to this milestone, the Epicenter reported some incredible community outcomes, including a:
- 32.76% increase in households with children enrolled in school meal programs
- 152.47% increase in households with food processing training
- 91.8% decrease in households experiencing hunger
Listening to Nature, Leading with Hope
One day, Yacouba dreams of expanding his farm and drilling wells to improve water access. He spoke proudly of his land and his nursery, where thousands of plants are helping restore the environment and generate income.
“Nature speaks to you, if you know how to listen to it.”
Yacouba’s story reminds us that fathers can be caretakers, mentors, providers and changemakers, working tirelessly to help their families and communities thrive.
This Father’s Day, We Celebrate Fathers Like Yacouba
At The Hunger Project, we are proud to partner with families and communities creating lasting change from the ground up. Join us in celebrating the fathers whose leadership, resilience and care are helping create a world without hunger.
Photo credits for images above: Burkina Faso 2022. All photos are for The Hunger Project.