Women Weaving Mohéli's Sustainable Future

The ReSea Project team in Comoros recently had the privilege of visiting Réseau Femme et Développement Mohéli, led by the inspiring Madam Sitty Maka.

Since 1994, this women-led association has been a cornerstone of empowerment, operating on government-allocated land and creating opportunities for women, youth, and people with disabilities.

Building skills and community

With support from the European Union (EU) and other partners, the association has acquired sewing machines to carry out work in sewing, tailoring, and embroidery, training more than 300 beneficiaries and employing 10 staff members. All income is shared equally, giving young women not only practical skills, but also dignity, fairness, and a true sense of community.

From community building to climate solutions

What makes this journey even more powerful is that Mama Sitty and her team are not just community builders, they are also willing to learn and have joined as participants in the Nature-based Solutions (NbS) training workshop under the ReSea Project. Their active role shows the potential of local women’s associations to lead sustainable solutions for both people and nature.

Tackling plastic waste in the blue economy

During our discussions, the team raised plastic waste management as one of the most urgent challenges facing Mohéli. This priority aligns directly with the blue economy agenda, where waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy approaches can create jobs, protect ecosystems, and strengthen resilience.

Leading the blue economy transformation

Supporting associations like Réseau Femme et Développement Mohéli is critical NbS application and sustainable blue economy future in Moheli. With their experience, inclusiveness, and community trust, they are well positioned to become future leaders of the island’s blue economy transformation.

Their journey is proof that when women lead, communities thrive and when communities thrive, nature has a chance to regenerate.