3,450 benefit from grassroots initiative

The National Coordinator of New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), Princess Gloria Akobundu, has said that over 3,450 women and youths in have benefited from the federal government’s Grassroots Support Initiative in Imo State.

Akobundu, who disclosed  this at the graduation ceremony of 450 women and youths trained in various skills at St. Ita’s Catholic Church, Ibeme-Ugiri Isiala Mbano, said  the 450 graduands were drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state,  adding that 3,000 had already graduated and empowered in the past.

According to her, the aim of the programme is to make them self-reliant through skills acquisition and discourage youths from engaging in deviant  behaviours.

The  one -day programme which was in collaboration with Africa Peer Review Mechanism and other partners had the theme:, “Fighting Poverty, Discouraging Migration and Promoting Self Sufficiency.”

The traditional rulers of Ihim Community, Eze Oliver Ohanwe commended the government and NEPAD for the initiative.