Project Information

The skills acquisition program at the Multipurpose Centre offers training in sewing, baking, and computer literacy, with each course running for six to twelve weeks. Since the program launched in July 2022, a total of 620 individuals have completed training at the bakery centre, while 388 have been trained in sewing. RWF Nigeria plans to commence ICT training once a sufficient number of laptops have been procured.

Each year, the top six students are awarded sewing machines, mixers, and other essential tools to help them launch their own businesses and apply their newly acquired skills in practical, income-generating ways.

RWF is currently seeking funding to procure 30 laptops for the Computer Centre at the Multipurpose Centre in Ukpo. These laptops will enable the launch of ICT training programs for all target groups, including students of RWF International School.

The Health and Wellness Centre at the MPC serves children aged 0 to 10, providing regular wellness checks to monitor growth and development. The centre also offers multivitamins and minor medical treatments for both children and their parents. In partnership with the Anambra State Ministry of Health, RWF Nigeria conducts bi-annual immunisation drives to promote community health and prevent common childhood diseases.

Since its launch in August 2023, the Wellness Centre has provided wellness checks and treatment for minor ailments to 3,344 children (1,764 girls and 1,580 boys). In addition, 144 parents and caregivers have received medical attention at the centre.

Through our collaboration with Vitamin Angels International and the Anambra State Ministry of Health, we have gained access to vital health resources, including:

• micronutrient supplements for pregnant women
• vitamin A for children aged 5–11 months
• vitamin A for children aged 6–59 months
• Albendazole for deworming children aged 12–59 months

These resources have significantly enhanced our capacity to support child and maternal health in the communities we serve.

The RWF Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) Project is designed to encourage trained bakers, tailors, and other entrepreneurs who have completed programs at the Multipurpose Centre (MPC) to join newly established VSLA groups. This initiative provides an additional avenue for income generation, financial inclusion, and community-based economic support.

Since the launch of the activity in November 2022, RWF staff have successfully formed 10 functioning Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) groups—exceeding the original target by four groups. These include:

• 3 VSLAs in Ukpo
• 2 in Amawbia
• 2 in Ukwulu
• 1 each in Umunnachi, Awka, and Nawgu

A total of 250 participants, 13 men and 237 women, have been trained and organised into groups based on their respective communities. Each VSLA has a maximum capacity of approximately 25 members.

To support effective operation, each group is provided with a start-up fund per member, along with the necessary tools and training to manage and sustain their savings and loan activities.

Beneficiaries who successfully complete the bakery or sewing training and express interest in starting their own businesses are given the opportunity to participate in RWF’s Entrepreneurship Project. This initiative is designed to equip selected individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to launch and manage a successful business, thereby enhancing their chances of long-term economic self-reliance.

So far, 448 individuals (comprising 81 men and 367 women) have participated in RWF’s entrepreneurship training. Many of these participants previously completed the bakery or sewing programs and joined the training to gain the skills needed to start their own businesses. The local entrepreneurship training focuses on practical business foundations, including bookkeeping, administration, marketing strategies, and business management, equipping participants with the tools to successfully launch and sustain their ventures.