The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced a N200 million initiative aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bayelsa State. The programme seeks to mitigate the impact of current socio-economic challenges by bolstering businesses across various sectors.
During a ceremony at the Government House in Yenagoa, Joyce Oboro, the leader of the UNDP team, presented a check to Governor Douye Diri. Oboro highlighted that the European Union is a co-sponsor of the project, which encompasses financial support, capacity building, and a cluster-based approach to achieving its objectives.
Expressing optimism about the project’s potential to stimulate economic growth and improve the standard of living for Bayelsans, Oboro urged stakeholders and individuals to participate actively.
Governor Diri welcomed the partnership between the state government and the UNDP, acknowledging the administration’s ongoing efforts to develop and support MSMEs. He stated that the government, in line with its prosperity agenda, has trained numerous Bayelsans and empowered them with starter packs and monthly grants of N200,000 to 420 small business owners across the state’s 105 wards.
“For us as an administration, our mantra has been shared prosperity,” Diri affirmed. “Our people have to prosper in all aspects of their lives. So, we are very happy to collaborate with development-oriented organisations like yours.”
The governor expressed appreciation for the UNDP’s support during the devastating floods in 2022, describing the organisation as a true friend of the state. He assured the UNDP delegation that the state would play its role in the partnership, emphasising the administration’s commitment to attracting initiatives that add value to the lives of Bayelsans.
Diri underscored the importance of human capital development, stating, “It is good to build other infrastructure, but the human beings to manage it are more important. That is why, as a government, we are taking it seriously, and I believe that this is one partnership that will bring succour to our people.”
The UNDP-funded project is expected to provide a significant boost to the MSME sector in Bayelsa State, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods for the local population.