By Chiamaka Edokwe :
In a significant boost to small businesses in Anambra State, about 3,000 entrepreneurs have successfully completed a five-day training programme supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) in collaboration with the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA).
The training programme which kicked off on July 9, was conducted in multiple locations across the state.
The first phase of the training took place in Onitsha North LGA, serving the Anambra North senatorial zone. The programme then moved to Nnewi North LGA Secretariat on July 11 and 12, for the Anambra South Senatorial Zone.
Finally, the training was concluded in the state capital, Awka, on July 13, covering the Anambra Central Senatorial Zone.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo who was represented by the ASBA Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Clement Chukwuka while addressing the participants, emphasized the importance of the programme for capacity building.
He urged them to implement the knowledge gained in order to make better business decisions.
Mr. Chukwuka commended Governor Soludo’s leadership in fostering a conducive environment for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Anambra.
The UNDP representative in the syate, Mrs. Grace Arinze highlighted Anambra State’s commitment to the programme noting that the state’s proactive approach in not only securing funds but also in gaining essential business knowledge.
The Project Manager, Mr. Fortune Tamunokoro Granville, lauded the training impact across the senatorial zones and encouraged for continuous learning among business owners.
State Focal Person, Vivian Onwuzu challenged the beneficiaries to apply their new skills while taking notes of what they can do differently to boost their various businesses.
Beneficiaries like Mrs. Ngozi Ume, a fashion designer, Mr. Leo Imoka, a rice farmer and Chukwuka Obiano, a poultry farmer expressed gratitude for the training and grants received.
They thanked the Soludo-led administration and the UNDP/EU for their support in empowering MSMEs in the state.
*Edokwe is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*
