Over 108 market women in Isiama community, Andoni Local Council of Rivers State, have received more than N12 million to boost their small businesses following the submission of business proposals.

The beneficiaries, who had struggled to grow their ventures, submitted proposals for businesses including bulk sales of crayfish and fish, tailoring, interior design, hairdressing, and foodstuff trading.

Some of them noted that amounts between N200,000 and N300,000 would make a significant difference to their businesses and improve their standard of living amid economic hardship.

The fund was donated by Justus Ngerebara, a community member, in partnership with Fast Track Development Initiatives (FDI), an organisation focused on community development and capacity building for women and youths. It was the first time the community had witnessed such an initiative.

Ngerebara, who acknowledged the support of his wife, Dr Unyime, in the project, said his family believed women’s empowerment was a powerful driver of economic growth, especially in rural communities.

He explained that the support was part of a first-phase programme and that funds would be distributed according to the capacities of the businesses. An annual review of the beneficiaries’ performance would be conducted, with plans to reward those who used the funds effectively.

“We are inspired to do this following our commitment to easing the burdens of economic hardship and our deep love for the community. Also, the saying, ‘when you empower a woman you empower a community,’ inspired us because it resonated strongly knowing that empowered women uplift households and inspire generational change,” he said.

Ngerebara encouraged the women to invest wisely and channel the resources into businesses that would multiply the support they received. He expressed confidence that the initiative would help eradicate hunger, foster peace, and promote development in rural households.

He also urged men in the community to support their wives in building and growing their enterprises. He disclosed that the organisation had previously provided solar-powered lights and water facilities in the area.

Former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Dr Sampson Ngerebara, who declared the event open, described the initiative as a “landmark” that would improve the living conditions of the people. He said its success would attract more empowerment programmes to the community.

A lecturer at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Awajimogobo Felix MacLean, advised the beneficiaries to remain consistent in their businesses and avoid unnecessary competition.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Hebron Mercy Fyneface, a crayfish seller and interior designer, described the initiative as significant and a major milestone, saying it was the first time the community was witnessing such support. She expressed gratitude to the organisers for empowering rural women.