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Enhancing Economic Opportunities
Many African economies have been experiencing growth over the past few years. Unemployment remains high, however, and economic opportunities are limited, particularly in rural areas. Tostan is addressing these issues by providing villagers with:
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capacity building in basic math, small project-management, and budgeting skills;
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opportunities to partner with local and international NGOs and lending institutions;
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microcredit activities.
The curriculum of the Community Empowerment Program (CEP) includes lessons on simple literacy, math, project management, and budgeting skills, which help participants successfully plan and launch small businesses in their villages. Problem-solving lessons encourage participants to set financial goals and plan for the future.
Through the Empowered Communities Network (ECN), Tostan helps communities partner with local and international organizations willing to work together on small business ventures and microcredit programs.
Finally, Tostan provides funds and training to microcredit associations in selected villages. Successful small business projects have included:
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the sale of staples such as sugar, oil, and millet;
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the production and sale of locally made soap, antimosquito lotion, fruit juices, or dyed fabric (above);
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collective projects such as community gardens and animal-raising cooperatives.
Tostan’s microcredit activities offer participants, particularly women, the means to start a small business and earn an independent income. Access to credit encourages entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency while opening up new opportunities for income generation. Achieving a measure of economic security is critical to developing a sense of autonomy in the family and the community.
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