By Alexander Johnson Adejoh and Ebube Edieh
The Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC), Awka, has empowered 86 individuals with cash grants to boost their businesses and support startup ventures. This initiative is aimed at enhancing economic growth and reducing unemployment in Awka Diocese. By providing beneficiaries with the necessary resources to expand their enterprises, JDPC Awka hopes to create job opportunities and stimulate economic development.
According to Rev. Fr. Levi Ukor, the Director of JDPC in Awka Diocese, the empowerment program is a key component of the organization’s mission to promote integral human development and reduce poverty. Fr. Ukor emphasized that the initiative is designed to support entrepreneurs and small business owners, particularly those in rural areas, to access the resources they need to grow their businesses.
The 86 beneficiaries of the empowerment program were selected from a pool of applicants who underwent a rigorous screening process. The selection criteria included the viability of their business proposals, their potential for job creation, and their commitment to contributing to the economic development of their communities.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Nwosu Juliet, a small-scale business owner, expressed her gratitude to JDPC Awka for the cash grant. “This grant has come at the right time for me,” she said. “I have been struggling to expand my business, and with this support, I will be able to purchase more goods and equipment. I am confident that my business will become more productive, and I will be able to create jobs for others in my community.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs Ani Christiana, a young entrepreneur, also expressed her appreciation for the support. “I have always dreamed of starting my own business, but I lacked the resources to do so,” She said. “This grant from JDPC Awka has given me the opportunity to turn my dream into reality. I am committed to using this support to create jobs and contribute to the economic development of my community.”
The empowerment program is a testament to JDPC Awka’s commitment to promoting economic development and reducing poverty in the region. By providing support to entrepreneurs and small business owners, the organization is helping to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities.
Rev. Fr. Levi Ukor, on behalf of the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most. Rev. Paulinus C. Ezeokafor, appreciated everyone who had supported JDPC Awka throughout the year. He expressed his gratitude to all donors, partners, and stakeholders who had contributed to the organization’s work. Fr. Ukor also acknowledged the support of the Catholic Church and the Awka Diocese, without which the organization’s work would not be possible.
Fr. Ukor also expressed his hope that next year will be bigger and better for JDPC Awka. He noted that the organization is committed to continuing its work in promoting economic development, reducing poverty, and supporting the most vulnerable members of society.
The funds for the empowerment program were generated from the proceeds of the last JDPC week. The JDPC week is an annual event that brings together stakeholders, partners, and supporters of the organization to raise awareness and funds for its work.
Fides discovered that the empowerment program is just one of the many initiatives implemented by JDPC Awka to promote economic development and reduce poverty. The organization also provides training and capacity-building programs for entrepreneurs and small business owners, as well as support for Agriculture, education, and healthcare initiatives.
For his part, JDPC Chairman in Awka Diocese, Hon PC Adinuba, disclosed that JDPC Awka’s commitment to promoting economic development and reducing poverty is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization’s work is focused on achieving SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
He added that the empowerment program has not only provided financial support to beneficiaries but has also given them the opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs and small business owners. This networking opportunity is expected to lead to the creation of new business partnerships and collaborations.
As JDPC Awka looks to the future, it is clear that the organization will continue to play a critical role in promoting economic development and reducing poverty in the region. With the support of its partners, donors, and stakeholders, JDPC Awka is well-positioned to achieve its goals and make a lasting difference in the lives of those it serves.
