The Ministry of Youth and Sports has launched a small business grant program for more than 90 young entrepreneurs in River Gee County.
The program was officially launched on Wednesday, September 9, in Fish Town City, the county capital.
Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, Alphonso Belleh, represented the Ministry.
Under the initiative, each of the over 90 selected young people will receive L$30,000 to strengthen, and expand their existing small-scale businesses.
The program is part of its national youth empowerment strategy to promote entrepreneurship, self-employment, and economic opportunities for the youth, particularly those in the counties.
It is expected to boost small businesses, increase household incomes, and create additional job opportunities in River Gee County.
Belleh said, government has meanwhile, committed to create an enabling environment for young people to become self-reliant, and contribute to economic growth, rather than depending solely on government jobs.
- Nyantee Wah of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, who represented the county, welcomed the intervention, and praised the Ministry of Youth and Sports for targeting River Gee.
Wah urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, and invest in viable businesses that will generate sustainable income.
“This should not be seen as free money to spend, but as a seed to grow your business. Invest the money so that tomorrow you can create jobs for others.”
River Gee County Youth and Sports Coordinator, Ben Karty, also highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to empower young people through skills training, business support, and other development opportunities.
Karty encouraged young people to take advantage of the government programs, and to remain engaged with the Ministry for future opportunities.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Ministry, and promised to use the grants for their intended purpose.
