By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Chief Executive Officer of Kamrum Integrated Farms, Mr. Rijo Shekari,has made a groundbreaking announcement at the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, and launched the Women-led SME Upscaling Initiative aimed at empowering 120 women entrepreneurs across the 11 wards of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Themed “Accelerate Action – Upscaling Women-Owned SMEs in Zangon Kataf LGA,” the event brought together dignitaries, partners, and stakeholders committed to advancing women’s economic participation.

In his remarks, Mr. Shekari emphasized the urgent need to break barriers hindering female entrepreneurs, citing statistics that reveal a 32% financing gap for women-owned businesses in Nigeria and a financial exclusion rate of 70% for women in Kaduna State.

“At Kamrum Farms, we recognize these challenges and are committed to transforming them into opportunities,” he stated. “This initiative will provide financial grants, business training, and structured monitoring to ensure sustainable growth. This is not a handout; it is an investment in our local economy.”

He explained that the initiative aims to scale each beneficiary’s business to a ₦1 million valuation within 36 months, injecting between ₦120 million and ₦200 million into the local economy.

Mr. Shekari further stated that women entrepreneurs would not only gain financial independence but also become key drivers of innovation, resilience, and sustainable development in Zangon Kataf.

The Managing Director of the Kaduna Enterprise Development Agency (KADEDA), Mr. Iliya Timbuark, described the initiative as a transformative step towards inclusive economic growth.

He reaffirmed the Kaduna State government’s commitment through KADEDA to support women and youth in business development.

In his goodwill message, the Agwam Kajju II, HRH Luka Kogi Yabwat, commended Kamrum Farms for the initiative, emphasizing that investing in women strengthens families and communities.

“Women have always been the backbone of our local economy. This initiative will not only empower them but also drive prosperity in our communities,” he stated.

Also present were the three female councillors from Gidan Jatau, Zonzon, and Ikulu Wards, who collectively described the program as a historic intervention that will reshape the economic landscape for women in Zangon Kataf.

They pledged to support the beneficiaries in ensuring the effective utilization of the grants and training.

Some beneficiaries who spoke during the event expressed gratitude for the financial support, describing it as a significant boost that would transform their business growth.

They prayed for the continued success of the initiative and pledged to use the funds for their intended purpose.

Salama News reports that each of the 120 beneficiaries, drawn from the 11 wards of Zangon Kataf LGA, received ₦100,000 to boost their businesses, along with a ₦5,000 transport allowance.

The event marked a major step towards women’s economic empowerment, reinforcing the call to accelerate action and break barriers for female entrepreneurs in Zangon Kataf.