Madam Abigail Laryea, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO), described the achievement as significant, saying the initiative was a game-changer in the empowerment of vulnerable women.

"This Programme is about more than just teaching employable skills. It is about offering hope and nurturing lifelong dreams," she noted in an address at the graduation ceremony for some 620 beneficiaries of the Programme, in Accra.

The event, marking the fifth in the series of training lined up under the Programme, saw the trainees being awarded certificates.

They were also provided with start-up equipment, comprising machinery for soap-making and detergents, make-up, baking, manicure and pedicure, bead-making, and decoration.

The Empowerment Programme is an initiative under the Office of the Vice President in collaboration with NEIP, Youth Employment Agency (YEA), and Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA).

The main objective is to empower 'kayayei' across the country with technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to enhance their wellbeing.

The target is to train some 5,000 female head porters from the month of May to November 2024.
Madam Laryea noted that the Programme was providing practical skills and knowledge to participants, preparing them for specific trades and occupations for a decent living.
She praised the determination and resilience of the trainees, saying they now had the requisite skills and tools to create sustainable livelihoods.

Mrs Juliana Adubofuor, an official from the Ghana Enterprise Agency, encouraged the graduates to take full advantage of the support available through the Agency's business advisory and resource centres.

She reminded the trainees that it was only the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey, urging them to continue striving for excellence in their trades.

Ms Hawa Amarh, speaking on behalf of the graduating class, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gain valuable skills.

"Our time in this programme has been unique, filled with exciting experiences.
"We are ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives, armed with the skills we have acquired to shape our own stories," she stated.