By Elisha Hardingnel
A training workshop launched by the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt, which took place on the 13th and 14th June 2022 benefited 50 women of Lakka Community after which start up kits were distributed among them .
The Skills and Entrepreneurship training programme aimed at empowering the beneficiaries in order for them to become self-reliant and abstain from destructive environmental practices
Under a programme which is being implemented by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and the National Tourist Board with support from UNDP under the Gef Project is targeting women in the coastal risk areas of Lakka, Hamilton, Tombo, Conakry Dee, Chepo and Shenge.
The Director of Tourism, Mohamed Jalloh told participants that the women empowerment training was borne out of the Minister’s vision for women in tourism. He continued that the women will be trained on entrepreneurship techniques, handicrafts skills and mentorship.
In her brief statement, the General Manager of the National Tourist Board, Fatmata Hamid Carew said at the end of the training the women will be empowered and self-reliant while urging them to grab the opportunity for the betterment of their families.
Speaking to beneficiaries at the Lakka Community Hall, Dr. Pratt intimated that even though Lakka is seen as a fishing community, it also has huge sustainable tourism potentials. She said the training was aimed at growing the tourism and also transforming the communities. She disclosed the World Bank has consented to support the women in tourism initiative for which they will be targeting more communities. She called on them to focus their attention on mastering the skills in order to apply for loan and grant schemes to grow their businesses.
Presenting the start-up kits to the women, Dr. Pratt thanked the trainers and encouraged the trainees to use the start-up kits for the purposes they were given and also informed them that there will be an exhibition competition for all the communities trained.
The women were trained on embroidery, gara tie dying and make up skills. Each trainee was given a start-up package of ribbons, beads, lappa, needles, threads, sticker, rubber bucket, rubber bowl, ink, soda, powder, brillion cloth, gloves, variety of small brushes for eye brow and lash, variety of small combs, set of face lotion, setting spray and a token of cash.
The jubilant women appreciated the Minister and her team for considering their community in the all important training. They assured that the skills learnt will beneficial to them and their families.
