By Ukpa Ewa
In a major grassroots empowerment drive, the Dunukofia Local Government Area has empowered 1,083 petty traders across local markets in the area under a programme tagged “Nkwado Ndi Afia Table” a financial support initiative aimed at boosting small scale businesses and alleviating poverty.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, the Mayor of Dunukofia LGA, Barr. Chijioke Ozumba, emphasized the need to uplift the most economically vulnerable in the society. “We are here to empower 1,083 petty traders drawn from various local markets across Dunukofia. These are the people who truly need support. We are particularly focused on empowering women and petty traders to help them expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods”.
In addition to the financial empowerment, Mayor Ozumba also announced the commencement of two other key initiatives; the Dunukofia Literary Rebirth, designed to encourage reading among the youth and the Healthy Living Exercise and Farm, aimed at promoting wellness and self sustenance in the community.
According to the Mayor, the programme was executed by the Dunukofia Local Government Council with support from philanthropists, including Prince Arthur Eze. “Our goal is to empower these 1,083 families so that they in turn, can uplift others in the society,” Ozumba added, noting that a second phase of the empowerment initiative is already in the pipeline.
Flagging off the event, the Wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, encouraged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds. “It’s not about how much is given, but how it is managed. This money should be used to support your families, train your children and grow your businesses. Show honesty and trustworthiness so that more people will be willing to support you in the future,” she advised.
Other dignitaries present included the Commissioner for Lands, Prof. Offornze Amucheazi SAN; Mayor of Idemili South, Mrs. Amaka Obi; APGA Chieftain, Dr. John Olibie, and APGA Woman Leader in Dunukofia, Mrs. Ngozi Atunalu. They all commended the initiative and pledged their continued support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo, highlighting the importance of community empowerment in sustaining political and social development.
Mrs. Atunalu said that each petty trader received ₦50,000 to grow their businesses. “These are traders who display their goods on tables in the market, now they have a means to scale their trade and support their families,” she explained, reiterating the local government’s support for Governor Soludo.
Beneficiaries of the scheme, including Mrs. Francisca Nwoye and Mrs. Jacinta Maduka, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance. “This money will help us restock our businesses, we can now buy more melon, vegetables, rice, and other items to sell in the market,” they said.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
