KOTAKO Program Update
KÔTAKÔ Fund – Supporting Women, Building Futures
Under the KOTAKO micro-credit program, and with the active support of the LACASA KKO Foundation, Julianna has become a shop owner — a milestone that brings both independence and opportunity. Her shop is already improving daily life in Kotokounou by providing essential goods locally, saving families from long trips to town. As she continues to grow her business, we will accompany her with additional investments to help turn this inspiring first step into a lasting success story.
The Fund takes its name from the Baoulé language, spoken by Côte d’Ivoire’s largest ethnic community.
“Kôta” meaning to support
“Kô” meaning woman
Together, KÔTAKÔ beautifully expresses the initiative’s core mission: “To support women.”
This program is designed to empower rural women by offering micro-financing opportunities that help them launch or grow small businesses — from juice-making and agriculture to tailoring and food vending.
Our Goals:
Enable financial independence for women who traditionally lack access to formal credit systems
Foster entrepreneurship that is locally grounded, sustainable, and dignity-based
Encourage community leadership, as women reinvest in their families and villages
Reduce economic vulnerability and improve social inclusion
Why It Matters
Across rural Côte d’Ivoire, women are the backbone of families and communities — yet too often, they face systemic barriers to earning, saving, and investing in their own potential. The KÔTAKÔ Fund exists to change that. With every small grant, every piece of equipment, and every workshop delivered, we are planting the seeds of long-term change — led by women, powered by community.
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