Tuesday September 5, 2023
MOGADISHU, Somalia (HOL) — The U.S. Embassy in
Mogadishu inaugurated the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) in Somalia,
underscoring its dedication to bolstering entrepreneurship and gender equality
in Somalia.
A global initiative orchestrated by the U.S. Department
of State, AWE offers crucial entrepreneurial training, enabling women to expand
their enterprises and make significant contributions to their local
communities.
The initial AWE group in Somalia consists of 30
handpicked female entrepreneurs. They are set to partake in the Dream Builder
entrepreneurship program spanning four months, beginning this September. The
Somali-based iRise Hub Foundation has been chosen to oversee this program.
U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Shane Dixon praised the
cohort, stating, “These 30 women symbolize Somalia's potential for a brighter
future. Their dedication, innovation, and spirit of collaboration embody the
attributes that can steer the entire nation towards enhanced prosperity.”
AWE aims to equip ambitious women with the essential
knowledge, networking opportunities, and resources to initiate and expand
successful businesses. This aligns directly with the U.S. National Strategy on
Gender Equity and Equality. Furthermore, on a grassroots level, AWE leverages
support from public-private benefactors, local alliances, and U.S. Exchange
Alumni networks, stimulating economic growth in over 80 countries globally.
