19 women who completed a six-month tailoring training last year in Morobo County in Central Equatoria State on Tuesday received sewing machines as a startup from a women’s empowerment initiative by the Support for Peace and Education Development Program (SPEDP) and its consortium partners.
Speaking during the handover event, Isaac Batali, SPEDP program manager, said the machines are a fulfillment of a pledge by the county commissioner during the graduation ceremony of the trainees last year, and that hardships on the side of the funders kept the women waiting.
“Today is the time when the fulfillment of the commissioner’s promise comes to pass. There were responsibilities given to us as partners; unfortunately, up to now, there has been no response from the donors, which is why we could not give anything to these women,” he said. “I would like to appreciate the honorable commissioner for his step to empower women in the county. Although things are hard, we can continue pushing for the fulfillment of the promises made.”
Dawa Elizabeth, representing the beneficiaries, expressed appreciation for the support and described the move as the first of its kind from the authorities since her return from the refugee camp years ago.
“I want to sincerely appreciate the county authority and the partners for the support they have given us as women in the county,” she stated. “Supporting the women with such initiatives will reduce dependency among the women in the county. They will start working for themselves.”
For her part, Ajonye Prossy, the chairlady of the Morobo County Women Association, lauded the commissioner for his continuous support of the women and urged NGOs to always fulfil their promises.
“We as women are so excited to see that we are receiving these machines. Thanks to the commissioner for the tremendous efforts you have put in empowering our women in the county in a short period of time,” she said. “This gesture may appear small, but it is not because some people get trainings but at the end of the day, they lack start-up machines or capital.”
Meanwhile, Morobo County Commissioner Data Charles reaffirmed his commitment to women’s economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods. He cautioned the beneficiaries against selling the sewing machines.
“The issue of selling such items is not good. If you have seen that you have a lot of work to do, keep the machine inside until you have finished your work because the money you will receive from selling the machine will not help,” he advised. “We should bring good things to our women, that is why we brought these sewing machines. It is not yours but ours. Use it carefully. Chairlady, this is your work. If you find someone selling, report to the concerned authority.”
It is the first time women receive sewing machines after undergoing vocational training in Morobo County.