President Adama Barrow has presented D1.5 million to 15 women’s groups in the North Bank Region through the Women Enterprise Fund, in a move aimed at supporting small businesses and strengthening women’s economic empowerment.

The cheque presentation during the meet the people tour.

The funding is being provided through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare’s Women Enterprise Fund, which supports women-led enterprises and promotes their participation in economic activities.

Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare Fatou Kinteh said the fund remained an important government initiative for expanding women’s economic opportunities across the country.

She said the financial assistance would help the beneficiary groups strengthen their small-scale businesses, improve household livelihoods and build resilience within their communities.

According to the minister, the Women Enterprise Fund has supported thousands of Gambian women through start-up capital, training and business development opportunities.

The latest allocation to the 15 groups in the North Bank Region forms part of wider efforts to support women entrepreneurs and improve their access to financial resources needed to establish or expand businesses.

Access to start-up capital can help small enterprises purchase materials, increase production and improve their ability to generate income. For women operating businesses at community level, such support can also contribute to household welfare and local economic activity.

The initiative reflects the government’s stated commitment to promoting inclusive development by supporting women’s participation in economic activities.

Through the Women Enterprise Fund, the ministry seeks to provide women with financial and business support to strengthen their enterprises and improve their livelihoods.

The D1.5 million presentation adds to the government’s ongoing support for women’s economic empowerment, with the 15 beneficiary groups expected to use the assistance to advance their respective business activities.

By Adama Makasuba