WOMEN IN IMO STATE RECEIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO SET UP BUSINESSES.

Imo State Government has commenced the disbursement  of one Billion Naira loan aimed at empowering ten thousand women in the area

At the commencement of  the programme, Governor Rochas Okorocha said the loan was to assist women especially those in the rural areas to set up small scale businesses. He noted that his administration had initiated policies that would help reduce poverty and unemployment in the State.

Governor Okorocha explained that three thousand and fifty women would receive the sum of one hundred thousand naira each under the first tranche of the programme while  other tranches would be released soonest. He stated that government was aware of the difficulties experienced by the people and urged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds.

Earlier, the wife of the governor, Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha noted that women empowerment was key to reducing poverty in the society. The Economic Adviser to the Governor, Mr. Iyke Njoku said the loan was on a single digit interest rate which would be repaid after one year. Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with Radio Nigeria promised to make effective use of the fund. Highlight of the event was the symbolic distribution of cheques to twenty seven women representing all the local government areas in the state.

CHINAZO ILECHUKWU