Youth support

Youth Support: Transforming Lives Through Sustainable Livelihoods

At ECOWICE, we believe in unlocking the potential of young people, particularly those who have been unable to pursue formal education and find themselves drawn to environmentally harmful activities such as charcoal production and illegal hunting. These practices, while often seen as the only viable options, degrade natural resources and limit opportunities for long-term prosperity.

The challenges faced by these youth are deeply connected to shared community goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development. By working together, we can transform their reliance on harmful practices into opportunities for growth that benefit both people and the planet.

Through hands-on training in sustainable livelihoods, we offer young people alternatives that not only restore the environment but also enhance their day-to-day lives. For instance, we teach beekeeping—a practice that aligns with their surroundings and can be easily integrated into their routines. Beekeeping supports biodiversity, requires minimal resources, and yields products like honey and beeswax that are both culturally significant and economically valuable.

Similarly, mushroom farming offers a way to cultivate high-demand crops with minimal space and investment. With proper training, participants can harvest mushrooms multiple times a year, creating a consistent income stream. These practices not only improve their quality of life but also foster a sense of pride in contributing positively to their communities.

The results are transformative. Honey and mushrooms are sought-after products with lucrative markets, ensuring financial security for participants. At the same time, these activities reduce the reliance on environmentally destructive practices, directly contributing to the preservation of local ecosystems.

We empower young people by equipping them with practical skills, instilling confidence in their ability to build sustainable futures. With these tools, they become advocates for change, inspiring their peers to follow similar paths and reinforcing the broader shift toward conservation-driven livelihoods.

We wish to connect participants to the larger narrative of conservation. Imagine the pride of harvesting a golden comb of honey, knowing it symbolizes not only financial security but also the pollination of local crops and the flourishing of the environment. Picture a thriving mushroom farm—a tangible symbol of innovation and hope for a brighter future.

At ECOWICE, these initiatives are more than training programs; they are pathways to purpose, self-reliance, and environmental harmony. Together, we create a ripple effect of positive change, proving that young people, when given the tools and opportunities, can become champions of sustainable development and guardians of their natural heritage.