The Rotary Club of Accra-East has successfully organised the second edition of the Zongo Boot Camp, a community economic development program aimed at empowering women.
The initiative was first launched in 2018 by the late President Ibrahim Wuntah in response to the economic challenges faced by women in underserved communities. The program was designed not only to transfer practical skills but also to inspire entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Aligned with Rotary’s Area of Focus on Community Economic Development, the Zongo Boot Camp seeks to promote sustainable livelihoods through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. It equips women with practical, marketable skills and basic business knowledge, fostering self-employment, small business creation, and sustainable community development.
The first edition of the program had a significant impact on 40 women, with about 60% of beneficiaries establishing and actively running their own businesses, generating income and contributing to their households and communities. The success of the initial program informed the decision to launch this second edition.
This year, 40 women from Madina and surrounding areas participated, including single young mothers, school dropouts, unemployed women, and aspiring micro-entrepreneurs seeking additional or alternative income sources. Some participants even travelled from distant parts of Accra and beyond, demonstrating the high value placed on acquiring sustainable livelihood skills.
The participants were trained in four skill areas carefully selected for their relevance, affordability, and income-generating potential: soap and household detergent making, bead and fascinator making, tie-and-dye production, and pastries and local drink production.
In addition to technical skills, the five-day program included morning sessions on holistic capacity building. Participants received training on customer service, personal hygiene, packaging and branding, basic business management, and business registration procedures to prepare them to operate their enterprises professionally and competitively.
To support sustainability, beneficiaries were provided with start-up kits relevant to their chosen skills, enabling them to immediately begin or expand small businesses upon graduation.
The program, implemented at a total cost of USD 3,500, was supported by 208 volunteer hours from Rotary members, reflecting the club’s strong commitment and hands-on engagement.
The training concluded with a closing ceremony where beneficiaries showcased their completed products. They sold some items to Rotarians and Rotaractors, gaining practical market exposure and affirming the quality of their handiwork.
Following graduation, participants are expected to establish and grow micro-enterprises, train others in their communities, and contribute meaningfully to local economic development.
On behalf of the Rotary Club of Accra-East, President Mary Elorm Addo expressed appreciation to all project partners, facilitators, committee members, volunteers, and club members who contributed to the initiative’s success. She encouraged the women to embrace skills acquisition and called on more partners to support programs that empower women, recognizing that empowered women are central to strong families and resilient communities.
“I encourage you to put the skills you have learned to good use. Start small if you must, but start with confidence. Stay connected with your facilitators, continue to learn and refine your craft,” President Elorm advised.
The beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club of Accra-East for offering them such a life-changing opportunity.
The club intends to scale up the Zongo Boot Camp, deepen mentorship, and build partnerships to expand its reach and long-term impact.
