By Adam Muhammad, Gusau
In the face of escalating insecurity leading to the displacement of over 10,000 people, the Humanity and Community Development Foundation, in collaboration with the World Bank trained 60 youth in various skills and entrepreneurship.
The transformative initiative took flight on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, was designed to address the socio-economic challenges exacerbated by the security situation, aims to empower vulnerable youth and women with practical skills to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the overall resilience of the community.
Declaring the training open, the Founder and Executive Director, Dalhatu Musa Liman stated that the program aims to uplift 60 youth and counteract the challenges posed by displacement in the State.
“The persistent insecurity in Zamfara State has left a trail of hardship, with thousands forced to flee their homes.
“In response to this crisis, the training program became not only a beacon of hope but a strategic initiative to counteract the adverse effects of displacement” Liman stated.
Funded through the Community Connection Campaign, an annual workplace giving program of the World Bank, the project seek to foster self-reliance among the affected population.
“By equipping the youth with marketable skills and encouraging entrepreneurship, the initiative aims to create sustainable opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives amidst the prevailing challenges”. He said.
According to him, the comprehensive training covered various vocational fields, including tailoring, shoemaking, cosmetics/liquid soap making, and business management.
However, the participants were provided with essential tools and resources to kickstart their ventures, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and empowerment.
“The partnership between the NGO and the World Bank underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing complex socio-economic issues and serves as a testament to the commitment of both organizations to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by insecurity.” He further hinted.
Our correspondent reports that as the trained youth embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, the Enhancing Youth and Women Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Project stands as a beacon of resilience, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, positive change and empowerment are possible through strategic partnerships and community-focused initiatives.
In his opening remarks, the Director Projects and Programs of the foundation, underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives and collaborative efforts, expressing gratitude for the support received from the World Bank through its Community Connection Campaign.
“This annual workplace giving program serves as a vital resource, enabling the foundation to extend its reach and impact in the face of pressing challenges”.
As the training progresses, the participants are not merely acquiring skills, they are becoming agents of change in their communities.”
According to him, the project vision is to empower the youth and women of Zamfara State to not only overcome adversity but to thrive and contribute to the overall development of the region.
He pointed out that the kickoff event symbolizes a united front against insecurity, demonstrating that even in troubled times, initiatives like the Enhancing Youth and Women Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Project can spark a positive ripple effect, fostering resilience and hope among the affected population.