Humayoon Babur is a freelance  journalist base in Kabul, who is covering Afghanistan's events mostly from North or Northeastern parts of country with experienced more than 12 years for both print and broadcast multimedia.

From Conflict to Hope: The Afghan Entrepreneur Empowering Women

04 Nov 2024  |  Peace News Network  |  English  |  Women's Empowerment

In Afghanistan, Ghulam, an entrepreneur from Ghazni, has established a tomato paste factory to empower women and contribute to economic stability amidst the challenges following the Taliban's takeover. Despite severe restrictions on women and competition from foreign imports, Ghulam's factory employs 11 women, providing them with much-needed job opportunities. The initiative is praised for its role in peacebuilding and economic development, though challenges such as market competition and lack of infrastructure persist. Experts emphasize the need for local investment and government support to bolster domestic industries and create sustainable economic growth.

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Economic Development Women's Empowerment Post-Conflict Reconstruction

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Asmaa Botmi-Clarke is a journalist based in Durban, South Africa. 
Experienced Video Journalist with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. Skilled in Journalism in Television. Strong media and communication professional with a focus in Africa and African news.

The BRICS Business Women's Alliance meets in Durban

01 Oct 2023  |  Voice of America  |  French  |  Women's Empowerment

Ahead of their summit in Johannesburg, the BRICS Business Women's Alliance held a meeting in Durban aimed at promoting female participation in commerce and business to encourage economic growth.

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Economic Growth Women's Empowerment

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Mahmut Bozarslan is a journalist based in Diyarbakır, Turkey.

I worked particularly in East and Southeast of Turkey but especially in Norhern Iraq . During this time, I followed almost all terrorist incidents in the region and I made very successful stories. Because of my Kurdish language skill ...

Businesses Established in the Name of Women in Diyarbakır Are Not Operated by Women

01 Nov 2023  |  www.voaturkce.com  |  Turkish  |  Women's Empowerment

A study by the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the TOBB Diyarbakır Women Entrepreneurs Board reveals that only 14% of businesses in Diyarbakır involve women, with many being operated by men despite being registered under women's names. The report highlights the need for political and structural support to enhance women's economic participation, suggesting measures like tax reductions and improved access to financial resources. Despite an increase in women entrepreneurs from 470 to over 3,800 since 2018, challenges remain, including the misuse of women's names for business registration by men seeking financial advantages. The study calls for societal and governmental efforts to address these issues and promote genuine female entrepreneurship.

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Economic Participation Women's Empowerment Gender Equality

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Center-Left

Political View

Anna Chibamu is a current affairs and political journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. I also specialise in developmental features and profiling of high profile personalities.
In the past three years I have also started doing short mobile interviews, livestreaming of press conferences and making ...

Women and girls should enjoy equal access, control and ownership of resources

01 Oct 2023  |  www.newzimbabwe.com  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

Women Affairs minister Monica Mutsvangwa emphasizes addressing gender inequality and creating an enabling environment for women to access, control, and own resources. She highlights the challenges women face, including gender gaps, unequal access to resources, and gender-based violence. Mutsvangwa underscores the importance of the 2013 constitution in advancing women's rights and mentions recent legislative efforts like the Labour Amendment Act of 2023 and the Domestic Violence Act. She calls for collaborative efforts to address emerging issues like climate change and the impact of COVID-19 on women and girls.

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Economic Empowerment Gender Equality Women's Rights

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Center-Left

Political View

Eveline De Klerk is a journalist based in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Does photography, video and online content. I am passionate about impactfull strories and picture

UDF targets equitable land redistribution

14 Oct 2023  |  neweralive.na  |  English  |  Youth Empowerment

United Democratic Front (UDF) president Hendrik Gaobaeb outlined a vision for Namibia centered on equitable land redistribution, job creation, and youth empowerment. At a rally in Swakopmund, he emphasized transforming informal settlements into dignified housing, tackling unemployment through industrialization, and ensuring Namibia's mineral wealth benefits all citizens. The UDF manifesto includes initiatives for small and medium enterprise funding, agricultural grants, and educational reforms, including free education from pre-primary to doctorate levels. Gaobaeb criticized economic inequality and proposed a basic income grant for unemployed Namibians, advocating for decentralization to ensure fair resource distribution.

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Economic Inequality Youth Empowerment Land Redistribution

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Left

Political View

Mohamed Elashi is a journalist based in Doha, Qatar.

Meet the guardians of Tunisia’s Sejnane pottery heritage

30 Oct 2023  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Economic Development

In Sejnane, Tunisia, the ancient pottery tradition, primarily led by women, is a vital cultural heritage. Despite challenges post-2011 revolution, the Sejnenia Group was formed to organize and promote the craft, significantly boosting the local economy and social fabric. UNESCO's recognition in 2018 further increased international demand. The community remains committed to preserving this heritage, teaching the craft to future generations and transforming Sejnane into a tourist attraction.

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Women's Empowerment Economic Development Cultural Heritage

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Umar Farooq is a multimedia journalist based in Peshawar, Pakistan. He has extensive experience working in conflict zones. He has expertise in reporting on Pakistan-Afghan-US affairs and militancy۔

What Can We Learn From Bangladesh's Success In Family Planning?

12 Dec 2023  |  The Friday Times  |  English  |  Economic Development

The article discusses the decline in the Global Fertility Rate (TFR) and highlights the stark contrast between Bangladesh's successful family planning initiatives and Pakistan's lack of progress in this area. Despite similar political and cultural backgrounds, Bangladesh has managed to reduce its TFR significantly since its independence, while Pakistan's population has grown exponentially. The article attributes Bangladesh's success to a whole-of-government approach, involving multiple ministries and a strong political will to prioritize population planning. It also emphasizes the role of women's empowerment, education, and participation in the labor force as key factors in reducing fertility rates. The garment industry's growth and improvements in health facilities have also contributed to this success. The article suggests that Pakistan could benefit from adopting a similar approach, with political determination being the crucial element for the success of population planning programs.

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Women Empowerment Economic Development Global Fertility Rate Population Planning Family Planning Initiatives Health Facilities

Antynet Ford is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

NBK launches Forum to empower SMEs

03 Oct 2023  |  taarifanews.co.ke  |  English  |  SME Empowerment

National Bank of Kenya, in collaboration with The Leadership Group and Ashitiva LLP, has launched the National Business Forum to empower SMEs. This initiative aims to provide business leaders with capacity building, financial resources, and a network of experienced leaders. NBK will offer financing and advisory services, Ashitiva LLP will provide business and legal advice, and The Leadership Group will focus on training and development. The forum aims to support 100 businesses across various sectors, fostering sustainable growth and economic development in Kenya.

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Economic Development SME Empowerment

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Elias Gebreselassie is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He works as a freelance reporter and contributor for Xinhua News Agency, Alertnet Climate Reuters, AlJazeera English online, AFP, New Humanitarian Mongabay and many other media outlets.

Ethiopian women harness the power of savings to cushion climate shocks

19 Dec 2023  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Women's Empowerment

In southern Ethiopia, women are facing the challenges of climate change, which has affected their harvests and food security. To combat this, over 300 village savings and loan associations (VSLAs) have been established to empower women financially. These groups, part of the BRACED programme funded by the UK Department for International Development and led by Farm Africa and Mercy Corps, allow women to save money and take out small loans to start businesses and diversify their income. The initiative also includes training in financial management and natural resource conservation. Success stories include Workinesh Denda's fuel-efficient stove business and Shela Shekene's cattle venture. The project has led to increased savings and is changing community attitudes towards women's economic roles.

Tags:

Economic Development Women's Empowerment Climate Change Agriculture

Vanessa Gonye is an award winning journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. She is currently focusing on print journalism, with health reporting being the major area she covers. 

She is however an all rounder and can take up any task at any given time. 

Vanessa has a passion for grassroots ...

Youths get US$750K grant from CARE

27 Nov 2024  |  Southern Eye  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

A US$750,000 grant from the Project Management Institute Educational Foundation is set to benefit 27,000 youths in Zimbabwe and Tanzania through the 'Leading and Learning with Project Management' initiative. This three-year project aims to equip young people with essential management skills, enhancing their economic, social, and personal development. CARE Zimbabwe's country director, Walter Mwasaa, emphasized the project's focus on integrating project management principles into existing youth programs, benefiting both students and educators. The initiative seeks to empower youth with leadership, financial literacy, and life skills, supporting their transition to adulthood. Ashley Forsyth from PMIEF highlighted the organization's commitment to training future project management professionals in Africa.

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Economic Empowerment Youth Development Education

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Nusaiba Ibrahim is a freelance journalist and researcher based in Kano Nigeria. She is also a professional brand manager, a highly decorated content writer and copy editor.

Empowering Eswatini: Rural Women Crafting Their Paths

21 Nov 2024  |  awimnews.com  |  English  |  Women's Empowerment

In Eswatini, rural women like Theresa Mavuso and Simangele Mathonsi – Kunene are overcoming adversity through traditional basket weaving, a skill passed down through generations. Despite challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, and high HIV/AIDS rates, these women are using their craft to provide for their families and contribute to the local economy. The initiative Gone Rural has played a significant role in supporting over 780 artisans, offering sustainable income and education opportunities. The informal sector, particularly traditional crafts, is crucial to Eswatini's economy, with women making up nearly half of this workforce. Efforts to support these women include providing access to microfinance and financial literacy training. The stories of these women highlight resilience, empowerment, and the preservation of cultural heritage, challenging traditional gender roles and creating a ripple effect of positive change in their communities.

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Economic Development Women's Empowerment Cultural Heritage

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ROBERT KIBET is an award winning freelance journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya. His has appeared at DW, The Guardian UK, IPS, Equal Times, Thomson Reuters Foundation, News Deeply, Barzawire, Zenger News, IDN, Ubuntu Times, Climate Tracker and The New Humanitarian.

Incense and Myrrh Have New Value for Women in Kenya

01 Oct 2023  |  rebelion.org  |  Spanish  |  Economic Empowerment

Women in Kenya, particularly in the arid regions of Marsabit, are finding new economic opportunities through the collection and sale of gums and resins from local trees. This initiative is helping them achieve economic independence and support their families without relying solely on livestock. Organizations like the African Agency for Arid Resources and local government bodies are promoting sustainable practices to ensure environmental conservation. However, challenges remain, including the need for sustainable harvesting methods and addressing gender inequalities in resource control.

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Economic Empowerment Sustainable Development Gender Equality

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Jennifer Lazuta is a freelance journalist based in Dakar, Senegal.

Saving and Growing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

08 Nov 2023  |  www.crs.org  |  English  |  Economic Development

Alexandre Tshibamba, a shop owner in Bakua Mwagi village, Democratic Republic of the Congo, has seen his business thrive after joining a Savings and Internal Lending Community (SILC) through the Catholic Relief Services' Budikadidi project. Funded by the United States Agency for International Development, the project has helped over 87,500 households across 484 villages. SILC groups enable members like Alexandre to buy in bulk, diversify their merchandise, and manage resources without excessive debt. The project, in partnership with various organizations, aims to deliver multi-sectoral programming to foster self-sufficiency, strengthen systems, and reduce barriers to change.

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Community Empowerment Economic Development

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Andrew Maramwidze is a Freelance journalist based in Gaborone, Botswana, a diamond rich country in Southern Africa. Have worked with several editors across the globe on various projects.

Lefoko cracks whip on government employees

30 Aug 2024  |  guardiansun.co.bw  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

Minister Lefoko Moagi urges the Ministry of Minerals and Energy to expedite the implementation of Botswana's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to meet power demands and export surplus electricity by 2026. The plan includes several renewable energy projects, with a focus on solar and wind power. President Mokgweetsi Masisi emphasizes compliance with a policy requiring foreign independent power producers to cede 40% shareholding to locals, as part of a citizen empowerment scheme. The government aims to achieve 50% renewable energy consumption by 2036, with a target of 1076 MW of renewable energy production. The transition to renewable energy is seen as crucial for industrialization and climate change mitigation.

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Economic Empowerment Renewable Energy Government Policy

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Center-Left

Political View

Francis Okoye is a journalist based in Onitsha, Nigeria.
1. A Bimla Misra Memorial Health Fellowship CNS Health Fellow 2016-2017.
2. Awarded  as one of 3 best Correspondence of Citizen News Service 2016.
3. Over 300 published articles in print and online media since 1990, ranging from ...

Zulum Opens 600 Trainee-capacity Vocational Institute In Mafa

06 Oct 2023  |  leadership.ng  |  English  |  Youth Empowerment

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum inaugurated the Vocational Enterprise Institute Mafa, designed to train 450-600 youths annually in various trades. The institute aims to foster entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create a sustainable future for the state. Zulum emphasized the importance of vocational education in driving economic growth and reducing unemployment. Since 2019, the state has constructed multiple vocational training institutes to promote skill development and empower the youth.

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Economic Development Youth Empowerment Vocational Training

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Khonani Ontebetse is a journalist(more than 13 years experience) , researcher and novelist. My articles have appeared in a number of international publications, covering business, economy and politics. I also specialise in investigative journalism and most of my articles are on policy, governance ...

Police tender whistle-blower flutes at Masisi

23 Oct 2023  |  Sunday Standard  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

A whistle-blower has filed a report with the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime, alleging irregularities in a Botswana Police Services tender and calling for President Mokgweetsi Masisi to intervene. The report criticizes the restricted tendering process for the construction of 28 police stations, highlighting issues of transparency, fairness, and the qualifications of selected companies. The whistle-blower urges an independent investigation and a shift to an open and competitive tender process to ensure the responsible use of public funds.

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Economic Empowerment Corruption Government Contracts

Interpretive

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Center-Left

Political View

Caleb Onwe is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

International Day For Poverty Eradication: PAP To Strengthen Niger Delta Empowerment Programmes – Ndiomu

17 Oct 2023  |  newtelegraphng.com  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) reaffirms its commitment to economic empowerment and human capital development in the Niger Delta Region. Major General Barry Ndiomu (Rtd), the PAP Interim Administrator, announced during the International Day for Eradication of Poverty event that the programme is expanding beyond stipends to ex-agitators, offering skills acquisition training and leadership preparation. Ndiomu highlighted initiatives like the PAP Cooperative Scheme, Empowerment/Vocational Training, and upcoming projects aimed at combating poverty and altering the region's negative perceptions. He cited the funding of over 700 ex-agitators for agribusiness ventures and the sponsorship of 75 pilots and aircraft engineers for aviation training. President Bola Tinubu's support for these efforts was also acknowledged, aligning with his Renewed Hope Agenda to change the region's narrative.

Tags:

Economic Empowerment Poverty Eradication

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Political View

Brian Otieno is a freelance photojournalist and documentary photographer based in Nairobi, Kenya. He was raised in Kibera, where he documents the everyday realities of ordinary life through his photo project called KiberaStories, which started in 2013. His passion and commitment lie in capturing ...

Peace building directly translates to economic growth - Lobby

21 Nov 2023  |  The Star  |  English  |  Economic Growth

Peace-building efforts are crucial for economic growth and should be supported by all stakeholders, including the government. Judy Kimamu from Search for Common Ground emphasizes the importance of funding peace-building initiatives, which also aid in combating climate change and improving education and health. The Inuka project demonstrates significant economic returns from investments in youth. Despite challenges in sustaining funding, consistent support is essential. Improved relations between boda boda operators and security forces in Mombasa highlight the positive impact of peace-building initiatives. Creative efforts like those of Michael Baya also contribute to spreading peace messages.

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Youth Empowerment Economic Growth Peace-building

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Sutirtha Sahariah is a journalist based in New Delhi, India.

What could prevent survivors from being retrafficked? Evidence from India

05 Oct 2023  |  https://dhakacourier.com.bd/  |  English  |  Survivor Empowerment

Survivors of human trafficking in India face numerous challenges, including sensational media portrayals, an unresponsive criminal justice system, and a lack of economic opportunities. Despite these obstacles, survivor-led advocacy and empowerment programs are making strides. Initiatives like the Mahila Mitra program and the Beti Zindabad Bakery are examples of successful efforts to improve legal support and economic empowerment for survivors. However, there is a need for more comprehensive laws, better funding, and scalable models to ensure survivors can achieve financial independence and avoid retrafficking.

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Economic Opportunities Survivor Empowerment Human Trafficking

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Yunisa Saliu, is a reporter/columnist and publisher of DTourisphere online tourism, culture, heritage, and entertainment news. He has worked on different desks at Daily Observer newspaper reporting and handled columns such as Diplomatic Suites, Crime Watch, Panorama and Tourisphere. 
Tourisphere ...

ICDT, TFO instill skills in women-owned enterprises for access to int’l market

02 Oct 2023  |  thepoint.gm  |  English  |  Women's Empowerment

An international workshop in Banjul brought together 40 women entrepreneurs from OIC English-speaking countries to enhance their skills for global market success. The event, organized by the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT) and the Trade Facilitation Office of Canada (TFO Canada), aimed to improve access to international markets and value chain management for women-owned enterprises. Minister Baboucarr O. Joof highlighted the importance of the training for economic empowerment and inclusivity. The workshop also addressed the challenges faced by women in the labor market and aimed to elevate their visibility and online presence.

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Economic Development Women's Empowerment International Trade

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Derrick Sinjela is a journalist based in San Francisco, United States of America.

Women and Youth deserve land and resources, AAZ’s Jovina Nawenzake prods Zambian Government

23 Oct 2023  |  rainbownewszambia.com  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

On the eve of Zambia's 59th Independence anniversary, ActionAid Zambia's Interim Country Director, Jovina Nawenzake, emphasized the importance of equitable resource distribution to address economic struggles faced by women and youth. She called on the Zambian Government to facilitate easier access to land and capital resources for these groups, highlighting that less than 20% of women and youth currently own land. Nawenzake stressed the need for inclusive participation in decision-making and urged the government to create an enabling environment for social and economic equality. She also noted the potential impact of the rising cost of living on marginalized groups and called for collective efforts to find solutions.

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Economic Empowerment Gender Equality Youth Participation

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Javira Ssebwami is a journalist based in Kampala, Uganda. He is an online journalist in Uganda currently working with PML Daily as a field reporter and Editor. ******

Nabakooba calls on women in Kabarole to engage in wealth creation

27 Mar 2024  |  PML Daily  |  English  |  Economic Empowerment

Judith Nabakooba, Uganda's Lands Minister, urged women in Kabarole District to engage in wealth creation activities to combat poverty and gender inequality. Speaking at a belated Women's Day celebration, she highlighted the importance of economic empowerment and government programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and GROW. Nabakooba also emphasized the need for land ownership and saving culture among women. Other officials, including Victoria Businge Rusoke and Festus Bandeeba, supported her call, stressing the significance of proper land management and utilization of government funds. The article underscores the positive impact of these initiatives on women's lives in Kabarole.

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Economic Empowerment Gender Equality Wealth Creation

Balanced

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Center-Left

Political View

Award-winning producer with strong skills in social media, videography and non-linear editing. Experience in studio and field productions.

Over 7 years of experience as producer, writer, videographer, non-linear editor and director.
Familiar with web development.

Fala África: “Youth is capable”, says David Fardo on advances and challenges in Mozambique

17 Nov 2024  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Youth Empowerment

David Xavier Fardo, president of the Youth Parliament of Mozambique and a member of the African Union's ECOSOCC, discusses the importance of youth mobilization in politics and the challenges faced in implementing social and economic policies for young people. He emphasizes the need for youth participation in elections and governance, addressing issues like unemployment and education alignment with market demands. Fardo also highlights the role of ECOSOCC in proposing solutions for youth-related challenges across Africa, advocating for collective and integrative policy-making to overcome generational prejudices and create opportunities for the youth.

Tags:

Social and Economic Policies Youth Empowerment Political Participation

Balanced

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Center-Left

Political View

tuluhan tekelioglu is a journalist based in İstanbul, Turkey. She is a documentary film maker too. She worked in a different news paper and TV channels.

Trying to Keep the Silkworms Saved from the Earthquake Alive: 'Support Women's Power'

01 Oct 2023  |  www.cumhuriyet.com.tr  |  Turkish  |  Economic Development

The 'Hatay Sarısı' silkworms, one of Turkey's three registered breeds, are endangered due to the recent earthquake. Emel Duman, a silkworm breeder, believes that involving women in production can significantly boost the local economy. Despite the earthquake killing 95% of the silkworms, Duman is determined to revive the species with the help of universities and businesspeople. She emphasizes the need for a climate-controlled environment to sustain the silkworms and calls for support to preserve this cultural heritage and empower women in Hatay.

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Women's Empowerment Economic Development Earthquake

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Brian Yatich is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Fulfilling futures for the many, not the few

24 Oct 2024  |  The East African Business Times  |  English  |  Youth Empowerment

The African Union, in collaboration with organizations like Humana People to People and AUDA-NEPAD, is emphasizing the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to empower Africa's youth and drive economic prosperity. With Africa's youth population projected to double by 2050, the focus is on equipping young people with practical skills to overcome employment challenges and contribute to their communities. Initiatives like the Africa Skills Revolution aim to change perceptions of TVET and inspire innovation, as demonstrated by success stories like Huda Arbab's Craft for Life. The article highlights the potential of TVET to deliver socio-economic benefits and foster entrepreneurial spirit across the continent.

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Economic Development Youth Empowerment Education in Africa

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