A non-governmental organisation, Langa Women Development Initiative, has empowered 50 women and girls in Bauchi State through vocational training and financial inclusion programmes aimed at promoting self-reliance and economic stability.
The initiative was implemented under the Small Scale Project Fund of the Development Exchange Center (DEC), with support from Bread for the World. Beneficiaries were selected from Kafin Tafawa and Tsakanin Bayara communities in Bauchi Local Government Area.
At a graduation ceremony marking the completion of a six-month training programme, the Executive Director and Founder of the initiative, Dr. Grace Maikudi, said the intervention was designed to equip participants with practical skills for entrepreneurship and financial independence.
She explained that 10 beneficiaries were trained in tailoring and bag making, while 40 others received training in rice processing and brown powder production to enhance their income-generating capacity.
Maikudi also disclosed that two Village Savings and Loans Associations, named Aminchi and Nasara, were established to encourage savings culture and improve access to small business financing among the women.
According to her, 10 beneficiaries were further supported with sewing machines to help them establish their own businesses, while follow-up monitoring would continue to ensure proper use of the equipment and sustainability of the programme.
She commended the Development Exchange Center for its partnership and urged beneficiaries to apply their skills effectively, expand their enterprises, and transfer knowledge to others within their communities.
The Executive Director of the Development Exchange Center (DEC), Mrs. Helen Abba, represented by Programme Officer Esther Bala, described the project as impactful and praised the beneficiaries for their commitment throughout the training period.
She noted that such initiatives are critical to improving livelihoods, especially among women in rural communities.
The event also featured an exhibition of products made by the trainees, showcasing items from tailoring, bag production, and processed food products.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the organisations involved, saying the training had given them new opportunities to support their families and achieve financial independence.
