The Abia Town Widows Empowerment Foundation (ATWEF) is committed to empowering widows in Abia, a community in Southeast Nigeria, with a population of around 8,000. Among them, 283 accredited widows have been identified by ATWEF, each facing significant challenges in providing for their families after the loss of their spouses. Widows in this community, like many in Nigeria, often experience extreme financial and social hardships due to limited access to economic opportunities and societal support. ATWEF’s mission is to change this narrative by breaking the cycle of poverty and giving these women the tools to rebuild their lives independently.
In partnership with Canadian Samaritans for Africa (CSA), ATWEF is launching a comprehensive vocational training program aimed at transforming the lives of 30 widows at a time. The program will focus on three primary areas: tailoring and sewing, pig farming, and hairstyling and salon management. These are highly sought-after skills that can provide a sustainable income for the widows and their families. Over the course of an 18-month intensive training, participants will receive hands-on, practical education in their chosen fields, equipping them with the expertise necessary to start their own businesses or secure employment. By the end of the program, each widow will be capable of supporting their family, creating long-term economic stability.
In addition to vocational training, participants will attend weekly civic education classes. These sessions are designed to foster a deeper understanding of their civic duties and responsibilities, enhancing their ability to engage with their communities and manage their businesses effectively. By combining vocational and civic education, ATWEF aims to build not only economic independence but also a sense of empowerment and leadership among the widows.
ATWEF’s holistic approach recognizes that empowering widows is key to strengthening families and communities. By supporting this initiative, you can play a part in giving these women the skills and knowledge they need to overcome the challenges of widowhood and create a brighter future for themselves and their children. Join us in making a difference today!