3000 Yam Farm for LGBTQ Safe House

Ouidah LGBTQ humanist groups 

Ouidah Benin Republic

Members:

 Prosper Stephanie  Stephanieprosper242@gmail.com +2295199336354

Franck Olga. Olgafranck90@gmail.com +22953839538

Sebastien Fifa. Fifasebastien3@gmail.com. +22985286184

Godwin Rachou godwinrachou@gmail.com. +22958358295

Email: stephanieprosper242@gmail.com

Phone:  +2295199336374

What does humanism mean to you?

I am a humanist because humanism, secular ideas and humanism were at the forefront of fighting for women emancipation, rights and freedom. In a full patriarchy society like Benin, the woman and her future is imprisoned by religion and cultures. Everything about my Christian faith and Benin culture does not mean well for women and girls. And it is important to shun every aspect of human ideas that do not repeat the rights of women. For this reason  I am not a Christian, I believe in women's rights and I believe that every woman, when given the right education and training can reach greater heights.

Project Description

The Safe House in Ouidah provides refuge, protection, and empowerment for women who face discrimination, violence, or homelessness due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. While the shelter offers critical support services, its long-term sustainability remains a challenge. This agricultural initiative is designed to strengthen the Safe House’s economic independence while creating meaningful, skill-building opportunities for its residents.

With an investment of $300, the project will cover the purchase of yam seedlings, organic fertilizer, basic farming tools, and the preparation of land for planting. The 3,000 yam heaps will be cultivated by the residents with guidance from local farmers, allowing the women to gain agricultural skills that can be used for future income generation. Once harvested, the yams will serve two purposes: providing a reliable food supply for the Safe House and creating a surplus that can be sold in local markets. Revenue generated from yam sales will be reinvested into the Safe House's programs, helping to fund food, healthcare needs, and empowerment activities for the women.

By integrating agriculture into the Safe House’s model, this project promotes self-reliance, food security, and long-term sustainability. Beyond economic benefits, the yam farm will also offer therapeutic outdoor activity and a sense of collective achievement, contributing positively to the mental and emotional well-being of the residents. Ultimately, this 3,000-heap yam plantation will serve as a foundation for stability and empowerment, enabling LGBTQ women in Ouidah to build stronger, more independent futures.

Budget

Yam seedlings (3,000 heaps) – $120

Organic fertilizer & soil amendments – $60

Basic farming tools (hoes, cutlasses, watering cans) – $55

Land preparation & labor support – $40

Mulching – $15

Ashing of seedling – $10

Expected Income from Project, with Timeline

The yam plantation is expected to begin generating income approximately 6–8 months after planting, which aligns with the typical yam growth and harvest cycle in the region. From the 3,000 heaps, the project anticipates a harvest that can supply the Safe House with a steady food source while producing a marketable surplus. Based on local yam prices, the sale of surplus yams could generate an estimated $2500–$2700 per harvest cycle, creating a reliable income stream to support food, healthcare needs, and empowerment programs for the LGBTQ women residents. With careful crop management, the farm can produce annually, allowing the Safe House to achieve ongoing financial sustainability and gradually expand its agricultural activities.

Benefits to your Community

Enhances food security by increasing local yam production and reducing pressure on community food resources.

● Promotes inclusion and dignity by supporting LGBTQ women in gaining skills and contributing positively to community life.

● Stimulates the local economy through the sale of surplus yams and the purchase of supplies from local vendors.

● Encourages sustainable agriculture by using eco-friendly farming practices that benefit the environment and surrounding community.

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