leadership in global community.
Nzene Sylvester (IF'08, Cameroon) on June 5th, 2008
Washington CASH was our main host today. They consider micro enterprise as a holistic approach, embracing poverty alleviation, human development and economic development strategies. But what makes their model interesting is the training led programs of what they call get ready workshops. The eight-week business development training program offers hands-on, practical information that is designed to help potential borrowers take concrete steps towards creating their own businesses. At this stage potential clients talk about their business ideas and get advice on it. It helps clients to produce a solid and comprehensive business plan, and introduces them to fundamental business practices, such as preparing cash flow statements, record-keeping, marketing, budgeting, and completing feasibility assessments. Since most participants have never owned a business before, this training is essential, and prepares clients for the next phases of the program of joining a peer group of 5 – 10 (loan group) and applying for micro loans
I found this very interesting and think will be very helpful and applicable in our proposed training center. We think training young Cameroonians to take over the present aging farming population is a gate way to alleviating poverty, encourage self employment and increase food security. Their capacities will be built on integrated and sustainable farming practices. It will involve the whole production cycle from planting to harvesting, through to marketing. Hence, to have a sustainable farm enterprise requires a solid and comprehensive business plan to be able to access resources.
