On May 14, 2025, in Agbodrafo, the WACA ResIP program officially handed over essential work equipment to 30 fish vendor groups and 40 market gardener groups from the Lacs 1 and 3 municipalities. The initiative is part of a social sub-project aimed at strengthening the resilience of local communities along the Gbodjomé–Sanvie Kondji coastline, where coastal erosion has disrupted key economic activities.

While coastal protection infrastructure has delivered clear environmental benefits, it has also altered the local landscape, impacting livelihoods tied to fishing, fish vending, and market gardening. According to National Project Coordinator Dr. Adou Rahim Alimi Assimiou, the project was designed to help communities adapt by reviving and improving their income-generating activities. The sub-project is backed by a budget exceeding 1.5 billion CFA francs.

Presided over by the Prefect of the Lacs, Mr. Daté Norbert Bénissan, the handover ceremony brought together local authorities, ministry representatives, and beneficiaries. Equipment distributed included electric pressure sprayers with rechargeable batteries, protective suits for gardeners, large-capacity freezers, coolers, gloves, head covers, and face masks—valued at 26,447,340 CFA francs.

Officials emphasized the need for proper use and maintenance to ensure the durability of the tools. Beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation. Mrs. Tsemekpo Nana, a fish vendor from Lacs 3, noted that rising temperatures have made fish preservation increasingly difficult and that the freezers arrived at a critical time. Mrs. Agbagla Dékawolé, a market gardener, saw the sprayer kit as a boost to her productivity and a step toward women's economic empowerment. Mr. Guidiglo Kossi André highlighted how the new sprayers and protective gear will help manage pests while safeguarding workers' health.

The sub-project also includes upcoming support for fishing cooperatives, such as distributing motorized canoes, outboard engines, nets, and life jackets. Community infrastructure—like latrines, water boreholes, and improved Chorkor fish-smoking ovens—will also be built. All distributions will be accompanied by training sessions, some of which began in February 2025 for market gardeners.

This two-year social sub-project is part of WACA ResIP's broader mission to enhance the resilience of coastal communities across West Africa to climate change and coastal degradation.