German Agency Gives PoS Machines, N4m Grants to 200 Women in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Government in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), a German agency, have empowered 200 women with Point of Sale (POS) machines and N4 million as start off grant.

The empowered was made through state Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues.

Speaking during the presentation, the Public Relation Office of the ministry, Osato Ekhator, said the scheme was a continuation of activities to mark the International Women’s Day.

She said that 75 women got their POS and grant on Friday while an additional 125 would start getting theirs this week,  noting that the gesture is expected to help the women become independent by engaging in business.

Ekhator disclosed that the programme was done in conjunction with GIZ, Wema Bank and other partners who are passionate about women empowerment.

According to her: “The Edo State Government have ensured that 200 women benefitted from this programme. Seventy five got their POS machine on Friday with the N20,000 grant each while other will get their this week.

“Hopefully, it will help them become self sufficient as they navigate this ever changing world.”

On his part the coordinator, GIZ, Joel Zombu noted that the agency has implemented a lot to empower women in different spheres, as well as contributing to gender policies with the Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues.

He maintained that the organisation has been in collaboration with Nigeria for many years and also empowering small business entrepreneurs, youths and women to run their businesses better.