Investing in women empowerment programs is vital – Schultz

United States Ambassador to Zambia Eric Schultz

United States Ambassador to Zambia Eric Schultz says investing in women empowerment programs is vital in fostering global economic growth and development.

Speaking during the launch of the first African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) women entrepreneurship centre of resources, education access and training in Kuku’ compound in Chawama constituency today, Ambassador Schultz who has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Caterpillar Foundation President Michelle Sullivan and Chief Executive Officer and founder of Startup Cup Sean Griffin supporting a new women’s entrepreneurship program in sub-Sahara Africa, says the centre will provide sustainable access to business development resources, networking, assistance and mentoring to women entrepreneurs.

Mr. Shultz states that the AWEP “WE CREATE” centre project is funded through the Africa women peace and security initiative through public private partnerships with the U.S department of State.
And speaking at the same function, Gender and Child Development Deputy Minister Dorothy Kazunga applauded the United States government for the gesture saying it will go a long towards empowering women.

Ms Kazunga has since challenged the private sector and other cooperating partners to take advantage of the initiative to explore possible strategic partnerships and collaboration with the new centre and ensure they create women empowerment for Zambian women.

And Caterpillar foundation president Michele Sullivan has encouraged women to aim high in their future endeavors.

Ms. Sullivan notes that in as much as women are facing a lot of challenges for them to reach where they want to be in life, there is need for them to remain focused and strong.

He explains that as founder of the caterpillar foundation, she has been able to interact with the majority women and understand their challenges.

Ms. Sullivan has however encouraged women to continue being strong even amid some difficulties because they have the potential to transform any country socially and economically.