The Edward Omotoso Foundation has provided financial support to 106 female petty traders from Esa-Oke community in Osun State to boost their businesses.
This women empowerment initiative by the NGO aims to help the beneficiaries expand their businesses and increase their income.
Presenting cheques to the beneficiaries, the foundation owner, Dr. Edward Omotoso, explained that only female traders were selected for the grant in recognition of the important roles women play in the family.
Omotoso, who was represented by Mr. Joshua Babajide, at the event further said, “At this event, you will be told how the lucky beneficiaries were selected.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the team that identified, vetted and made the final recommendations of the 106 women who are receiving the awards.
“You will notice that the women have been selected from all quarters and areas of Esa Oke – from Idofin, Oke Esa, Odo Esa, Erinjiyan, and everywhere else. Women engage in all kinds of buying and selling of all types of wares, food stuff clothing fruits, farms and other products.
“The only requirement is that the women are involved in trading – buying or producing and selling – to generate business and income. This way, we sustain livelihoods and promote development. By the way, we chose WOMEN – not men – for the awards.
“That’s not because we do not like men, or fail to recognize the important contributions of men. It is because, among other reasons, we know that women are the glue that hold homes and families together. Women manage homes, take care of the children and ensure that the family is fed and clothed. They organize, manage and monitor the goings and comings of their families.
“Also, let’s face it; women don’t go out with their friends to drink palm wine, beer, “Original Ogogoro” and other libations. Some women also drink sometimes – but not as much, or as often as men do. Men have other advantages that we all know about. Still, we love our men – and we are praying for them too.
“To our mothers, sisters and daughters who are getting the awards today, please note very carefully that this money is for your business – your trade, your buying and selling. It is not for burials, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries or other merriment. Do not buy clothes with this money. Use it for “kata-kara” to keep your business alive and running.
“I appeal to other Esa Oke indigenes who are able, to do similar projects and initiatives to promote development in this town. I believe that the success of your own life is determined by how much you positively affect other lives. So please do whatever you can to assist the people of Esa Oke.”
In his remarks, Owamiran of Esa Oke, Oba Adeyemi Adediran, also called on the beneficiaries to use the grant for the purpose it was meant for and avoid spending it on frivolities.
. TheWitness
