Empowering Small Businesses in Sierra Leone

by Develop Africa, Inc.

Summary

This project will empower individuals in Sierra Leone by providing vocational training, such as tailoring, catering, and computer/information technology skills, which are essential for success in a challenging economy. Additionally, microfinance loans will be given to young adults and women to support them in starting and growing their small businesses. Small businesses are widely recognized as the backbone of African economies, and this project will support and promote small businesses.

$49,000
total goal

$20,828
remaining

220
donors

2
monthly donors

15
fundraisers

14
years

Challenge

The International Labour Organization (ILO) reported in 2018, "The prevalence of working poverty in Africa is still so significant that the African working poor represented more than half (56%) of the world's working poor in 2018, while African employment represented only 14 percent of global employment." Many young adults are unable to gain the expertise that will enable them to become self-sufficient. These youths are caught in a vicious cycle of powerlessness and poverty.

Solution

This project aims to tackle the issue of skills deficits by offering crucial training in marketable skills to individuals in need. Acquiring skills is essential for reducing poverty, promoting economic recovery, and ensuring sustainable development. Additionally, trainees are provided with a toolkit to help them start their businesses. individuals can also receive a microfinance loan to start or expand their businesses, become self-reliant, and create employment opportunities for others.

Long-Term Impact

Technical and vocational training programs have the potential for long-term impact by fostering youth development through the acquisition of self-reliance and entrepreneurial skills. By addressing poverty and promoting the growth of local economies, these programs provide an effective intervention that can uplift the people of Sierra Leone. As individuals and small businesses become self-sufficient, families are brought out of the cycle of poverty and thereby strengthening society as a whole.