The SafeVeg project’s Component 2 campaign called “Eat more green leafy vegetables” is in full swing in the capital of Burkina Faso. Many consumers are adopting the slogan, which has become a trend and is even prompting the people of Burkina Faso to move from words to action. The general public in large urban areas is increasingly unanimous on the evidence that vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals and have a favourable effect on preventing certain diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, etc.

We are in the suburbs of the Burkinabe capital at the home of a rice seller who participates in the project. Anne, 22 years old, helps her brother, the shop owner. Here, hot rice is served to passers-by at first light. Initially, the menu proposed is composed of white rice with peanut sauce. But recently a place has been made for green leafy vegetables and an offer is proposed to consumers to balance their dish.

A few kilometers later, we are welcomed at the “Goût du Café”, a cafeteria on a very busy street. But don’t be mistaken. They don’t only serve hot coffee. Most of Sylvie’s (the owner) customers come here only to taste hot rice. Delicious rice with a particular flavour, according to the consumers interviewed. At the ” Goût du Café ” also, since the experiment launched by the SafeVeg project, vegetable sauces accompany and enrich the plates of steaming rice served to customers.

“I was skeptical when the project leaders approached me to participate in the initiative. Still, today I don’t regret it because the vegetable offering has brought me new customers who have become loyal. When they order rice, and there is no more vegetable sauce, some don’t eat it. Even those who were fans of peanut sauce or tomato sauce not long ago.”

The initiative of the SafeVeg project component 2 is making a difference in the daily eating habits of the inhabitants of Men of Integrity, the actual name of Upper Volta.