Emmanuel Ochayi
The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF) has launched a $15.7 million initiative, titled “Investing in Women in Nigeria” (IIW-Nigeria), funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), with the aim to empower women in the agriculture value chains in Kano State.
The AECF, a non-profit development organisation, is dedicated to supporting innovative agribusiness and renewable energy enterprises, creating a lasting impact on rural communities and job opportunities.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe program’s primary objective is to boost women’s income, enhance climate resilience, and transform their livelihoods by focusing on key value chains such as maize, rice, soya bean, groundnut, and poultry.
Speaking about the initiative, Victoria Sabula, CEO of AECF, noted that, “Women in the agriculture sector face significant obstacles in accessing funding and support.”
“The IIW-Nigeria Program will promote women’s economic empowerment by investing in businesses and cooperatives operating in various agricultural value chains.”
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This initiative introduces a competitive challenge fund model, ensuring that innovative solutions are recognized and supported with non-repayable grants. Additionally, IIW-Nigeria will provide technical assistance covering gender equality, human rights advocacy, business and management, and climate-smart agriculture. Customized support will be offered through the AECF Advisory Studio.
Governor Alh. Abba Kabiru Yusuf of Kano State expressed the significance of this program, saying, “Today marks the dawn of a new era in Kano State. We are investing not just in the future of our agriculture sector but in the strength, resilience, and boundless potential of our women. Together, we shall reap a bountiful and inclusive tomorrow for all.”
This initiative aligns with the World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update, recognizing the pivotal role of agriculture in Nigeria’s economy, although it is still recovering from the 2020 recession. The IIW-Nigeria program is set to bring transformative change and opportunities to women in agriculture, ultimately strengthening the sector and fostering economic development.
To date, they’ve supported over 400 businesses across Sub-Saharan Africa, impacting millions of lives and creating thousands of jobs.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
