In a bid to alleviate economic challenges and empower women in the Soe-Kugadooni community within the Soe/Yipaala Electoral Area of the Bolgatanga Municipality, over 100 women have undergone a one-day intensive training program in soap and detergent making.
The initiative, spearheaded by the area’s Assembly Member, Dr. Justice Aduko, in collaboration with partners including CAMFED, aimed to equip women with practical skills to enhance their livelihoods and reduce their dependency on external sources for household essentials.
The training, held at the community center, was met with enthusiasm by beneficiaries, many of whom expressed gratitude for the timely intervention.
For years, women in the community have struggled to make ends meet, particularly during the dry season when economic activities dwindle. The skills acquired in soap and detergent making are expected not only to reduce household expenses but also to create income-generating opportunities for the women.
Philomina Akim, a mother and one of the beneficiaries, shared her excitement about the training. “I spend a lot of money every month buying detergent for my household. This training has taught me how to make my own washing detergent, which will help me save money and even produce some for sale,” she said.
Another participant echoed similar sentiments, stating that she plans to start a small-scale detergent production business to supplement her family’s income.
Dr. Justice Aduko, the Assembly Member for the area, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “Most of these women lack stable economic activities, especially during the dry season, and often struggle to support their families. As their representative, I recognized their plight but lacked the resources to assist them individually. Therefore, I reached out to partners like CAMFED to provide this training and empower them with sustainable skills,” he explained.
Regina Asakiya, a trainer from CAMFED, highlighted the broader impact of the training. “This initiative will not only benefit the women but also discourage the migration of young women to the southern sector in search of non-existent jobs. With these skills, they can start their own businesses and improve their economic status,” she noted.
The training is expected to have a ripple effect on the community, as beneficiaries begin to produce and sell soap and detergent locally.
Dr. Aduko and his partners have pledged to monitor the progress of the women and provide further support where necessary.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga|Ghana
