Casa Congo is driving a transformative approach to community development in El Astillero, Nicaragua, by integrating agroecology with social and economic empowerment. Focused on supporting women’s collectives, the NGO has helped establish gardening initiatives that provide food security, income opportunities, and greater resilience against crises. Through hands-on training, financial support, and inclusive programs, women have gained the knowledge and resources to cultivate diverse crops while strengthening their role in the local economy.

The initiative has had a profound impact, particularly in times of hardship. During the 2018 civil unrest, local food supply chains were disrupted, but the community garden provided much-needed fresh produce. The project follows agroecological principles and includes a community seed bank with 72 local varieties. Over time, more than a dozen community gardens have been established, and women have begun expanding their knowledge to schools, fostering food sovereignty from the ground up.

Beyond agriculture, Casa Congo seeks to ensure the long-term sustainability of the community by diversifying income streams. Women are encouraged to engage in agroforestry, handicrafts, and other high-value production, supported by flexible funding from partners. With ongoing collaboration between the NGO, local authorities, and the Ministry of Forestry, the goal is to expand field schools and scale up agroecological practices, ensuring that the community continues to thrive independently.