Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria: A Commitment from the United States Government
The United States Government has recently reaffirmed its dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, recognizing their potential to drive economic growth and stability. This commitment is particularly significant in a country where women play a crucial role in the economy but often face numerous challenges in accessing resources and opportunities. The U.S. government’s support aims to create an environment conducive to increased stability, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians.
The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs
Central to this initiative is the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program designed to equip women with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the business world. During a recent three-day event in Lagos, 150 alumni of the academy gathered to enhance their digital skills, a crucial component in today’s technology-driven economy. This gathering not only served as a platform for skill advancement but also fostered a sense of community among women entrepreneurs.
Mr. Will Stevens, the United States Consul-General in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of the AWE during the event. He described it as a remarkable reunion of over 130 women who have graduated from the program in recent years. Since its inception in 2019, the AWE has focused on training women who already own small businesses, helping them to scale their operations through investments in technology, agriculture, and various investment services.
Building Connections and Support Networks
One of the standout features of the AWE is its emphasis on mentorship. The program connects Nigerian women entrepreneurs with mentors from the United States, including those from graduate business schools and the private sector. This network not only provides guidance but also fosters collaboration among the women themselves. Stevens highlighted the inspiring nature of this initiative, noting how these women are not only overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship but are also actively supporting one another in their business endeavors.
Each year, the academy selects between 30 to 50 women to participate in its programs, ensuring a focused and impactful experience. The consistent success of the AWE in empowering Nigerian businesswomen has been evident, as it equips them with essential entrepreneurial skills that are vital for navigating the complexities of the business landscape.
Alumni Success Stories
Adebisi Odeleye, the President of the AWE Alumni Association, shared her personal journey with the academy, describing it as an incredible experience that has significantly contributed to the scaling of women entrepreneurs’ businesses. She noted that many participants have benefited from grants provided by the U.S. government, which have facilitated the expansion of their ventures. These success stories are a testament to the program’s effectiveness in fostering sustainable growth among women-led businesses in Nigeria.
Advancing Gender-Responsive Procurement Practices
In a related initiative, Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), in collaboration with UN Women, has launched an Affirmative Procurement Project aimed at promoting gender-responsive procurement practices. This project seeks to enhance women’s participation in economic and public life by engaging private sector partners across Lagos to commit to women empowerment principles.
The timing of this project is particularly relevant, as global businesses increasingly recognize that pursuing gender equality is not just a moral obligation but a business imperative. Despite women-owned businesses constituting 40% of small and medium enterprises worldwide, they shockingly receive only 1% of corporate procurement contracts. The Affirmative Procurement Project aims to address this disparity, rallying more businesses to join the movement towards gender equality in procurement processes.
The Women Empowerment Principles
The Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) serve as a guiding framework for businesses looking to promote gender equality. These seven principles provide a roadmap for empowering women in the workplace, marketplace, and community. Over 200 companies in Nigeria have already signed up for these principles, demonstrating a growing commitment to gender equality in business practices.
The Affirmative Procurement Project seeks to expand this movement, encouraging even more companies to prioritize gender equality throughout their procurement and supply chain processes. By doing so, it aims to create a more inclusive economic environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive.
Conclusion
The commitment of the United States Government to empower women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, alongside initiatives like the Affirmative Procurement Project, reflects a broader recognition of the vital role women play in economic development. By providing training, mentorship, and access to resources, these programs are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all. As women continue to break barriers and drive innovation, the support from both local and international partners will be crucial in sustaining this momentum.