October 29, 2024, marks the second International Day of Care. This day, established by the United Nations, highlights the invaluable contributions of those who, every day, devote their time, energy, and compassion to serving others.

This care, whether provided in a family or professional setting, encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, which in Sub-Saharan Africa—and particularly in Côte d'Ivoire—fall primarily on women and girls. Whether paid or unpaid, these contributions remain essential, yet are too often invisible and insufficiently recognized, particularly in the case of unpaid care work.

CIRES, with support from IDRC and Global Affairs Canada, is currently conducting a study on the use of the TIKA improved stove to reduce the burden of domestic work for women in rural Côte d'Ivoire. This initiative is fully aligned with the objectives of the International Day of Care and Assistance.

To all these people—visible or invisible, from urban or rural areas, sensitive to vulnerability and gender inequality—who work to serve others, we express our deep gratitude and renew our commitment to ensuring that their work is recognized, reduced, and redistributed.

The Director of CIRES