Chinyere Ogbuagu/Ukpa Ewa
The Anambra State Coordinating Unit of the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up Project (NFWP-SU), has continued its community entry and sensitization activities with a visit to Oraeri Community in Aguata Local Government Area.
The programme, held on July 23, at Oraeri Community Hall attracted women, men and youths who pledged to support the successful implementation of the programme.
Receiving members of the State Coordinating Unit, the Traditional Ruler of Oraeri, HRH Ogbuefi Ejike Ugoagbala, described the project as timely and beneficial. He assured the team that the message would be spread through churches and other community platforms to encourage more women to participate, while urging them to take advantage of the opportunity.
The Community Institution Builder (CIB), Mrs. Juliana Onubiyi in her presentation noted that the project is aimed at empowering women economically, promoting savings and improving family livelihood. She explained that Ward Facilitators would be selected from the community to support implementation and ensure the programme succeeds.
Mrs. Onubiyi said women aged 18 years and above who are engaged in legitimate businesses are eligible to participate by forming Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) of 25 members, noting that the programme is open to both indigenes and non-indigenes residing in the community.
According to her, members will make weekly savings from their businesses to improve their income. She added that communities that effectively implement the project will benefit from the Community Investment Fund and other livelihood interventions based on their identified needs.
Similarly, the State Livelihood Advisor, Dr. Ekene Adokwe, said the programme is designed to support women who already have existing businesses. He explained that beneficiaries could receive working tools, equipment, revolving loans and other livelihood support to expand their enterprises and improve their incomes.
Dr. Adokwe further said that regular group meetings and savings would promote accountability and sustainability. He added that communities with strong participation could benefit from collective livelihood projects such as palm oil processing facilities.
Speaking on gender issues, the Gender-Based Violence Anchor, Chineye Ilona, said the project has zero tolerance for all forms of gender-based violence, discrimination and abuse. She urged participants to follow the programme guidelines, noting that it also promotes inclusion for persons living with disabilities.
During the interactive session, community leaders welcomed the initiative and sought clarification on financial management and implementation. High Chief Pius Ezeogu called for accountability in managing group finances, while Chief Emmanuel Mmuokebe advised women to form affinity groups according to their various occupations to enhance the project success.
The Community Women Leader, Dr. Anthonia Ezeilo appreciated the state government and the team for bringing the programme to the community. She pledged the community’s full support and commended Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing women economic empowerment in Anambra State.
Chinyere Ogbuagu and Ukpa Ewa are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
