Robert is the founding director of ECHO West Africa and has led its growth for over a decade. Before joining ECHO, he led ACCEDES, a multi-sectoral development organization in Burkina Faso, for more than 15 years. Mr. Sanou holds a Master’s Degree in Project Management and a Juris Doctorate in Law. A national of Burkina Faso, he is fluent in French and English. He has served on the boards of regional organizations, consulted for European and U.S. entities, and traveled extensively throughout the region and the world.
Small-scale farmers in West Africa face many challenges, including the impacts of climate change, depleted soils, and limited farmer organization. Since launching in the region in 2014, ECHO has been working to address these difficulties by equipping farmers with practical, sustainable agricultural methods. The results have been transformational: families are growing more food, soils are being restored, and the Word of God is being shared alongside agricultural training.
This holistic ministry not only empowers individuals but also strengthens entire communities. Farmers trained by ECHO apply what they’ve learned and, in turn, train others—creating a multiplication effect that extends far beyond the initial participants. As a result, small-scale farmers are becoming more resilient, better able to provide for their families, and prepared to thrive in the face of future challenges.