About The Odu Project

The Odu Project is an independent, community-led movement that empowers smallholder farmers to grow high-quality food in a way that is equitable and sustainable. The Odu Project collaborates with farmers across West Africa who embrace the quest "Farmers, Engaged, and Cultivators" whose work sustains the essential rhythms of food security in the region. We believe healthy food leads to prosperous communities.

The Odu Project places farmers at the center of food systems, promoting equitable and environmental governance. Through assemblies, cooperatives, and unions, The Odu Project builds structures that empower and compensate farmers. In particular, The Odu Project strengthens local ownership. It is built upon respect and autonomy, dignity, and democracy. The Odu Project collaborates with farmers, scientists, and innovators who share a commitment to high-quality and sustainability.

More than a labeling initiative, The Odu Project is a pathway for learning, a space for connection, and a blueprint for what's to come. Through partnerships with farmers, cultural groups, and innovators, The Odu Project cultivates autonomy and resilience. The Odu Project focuses on creating value that enables every farmer to live sustainably and vigorously.

As a cornerstone of food/health values, we recognize that growers are the backbone of economic sustainability and progress. The Odu Project is a transformative initiative focused on redefining local economies through empowering growers and producers.

Farmer harvesting crops

Our Development Journey

From humble beginnings to a transformative movement, our journey has evolved through careful planning, community engagement, and sustainable practices. This is how our journey unfolds.

Baseline

Begins with small-scale voluntary gatherings focused on building trust and foundational social value. Focus on partnerships (pre-testing, farmer capacity).

World Growth

Scale grower and community gatherings, an approach to building trust and understanding food access. Focus on partnerships (pre-testing, farmer capacity).

Scaling

Begins with small-scale voluntary gatherings focused on building trust and foundational social value. Focus on partnerships (pre-testing, farmer capacity).

Independence

Scale grower and community gatherings, an approach to building trust and understanding food access. Focus on partnerships (pre-testing, farmer capacity).

More Impact Stories

Youth Empowerment

Youth Empowerment Initiatives

Because of the Odu project, we were able to inspire 100+ young people return to agricultural roots while implementing innovative sustainable practices.

Jonathan Hayes

Josiah Evans

Community Farmer

Women's Cooperative

Community Farmer Success

Through the support of the Odù Project, I joined a community farming network that taught us sustainable, culturally-rooted techniques. Today, our harvests are stronger, our knowledge deeper, and our families more secure. The project didn’t just improve our farming — it restored our sense of pride and unity as a community.

Jonathan Hayes

Jonathan Hayes

Community Farmer

Women's Cooperative

Women's Cooperative Success

With the help of the Odu Project, women came together to form a successful cooperative, reviving traditional farming methods and creating economic independence.

Isabella Jackson

Community Farmer