This document summarizes the status of activities for a USAID cowpea project in West Africa in its first year. It outlines seed distribution efforts, training of community seed producers, establishment of demonstrations of best practices, and efforts to promote improved storage, home consumption, and market linkages. It notes progress establishing innovation platforms in target districts and initializing baseline surveys. Challenges and plans for collaboration with other projects are also mentioned. The project aims to scale improved cowpea varieties and technologies across three regions in its first year.