Olori Janet Afolabi, CNN award winning journalist and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, has launched Network of Women in Rural Areas as part of activities to celebrate rural women and provide a platform for them to access financial support to boost their petty businesses.
Afolabi in the welcome speech, at the event which took place on October 15, at the Alapomu Palace Hall, Apomu, headquarters of Isokan local government area of Osun state, said participating women will have access to no-interest loan to help them grow their small businesses and expand their economic prospects.
The financial support is expected to enable them increase their income, improve their livelihoods and contribute to the economic development of their communities.
” I am committed to supporting women in rural areas.This Network is a testament of my commitment to promoting women economic empowerment and reducing poverty in rural communities,” she said.
Christiana Akinlabu , the Otun Iyalode of Apomu, a high ranking Chief and member of the Apomu Market Development Committee, said the launch was a welcome development for women in rural who face major challenges in accessing financial supports.
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She said it was a significant step in promoting women’s enterprise “It will have positive impact on the lives of women and their families “
Many of the women who attended the event were given zero-interest loans. They also got different gift items.
The Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Kayode Afolabi, asked them to use the money for the purpose for which they got it.
He also enjoined them not to default when it is time to pay back the loan.
