Adaptive Entrepreneurship for Young Women School Dropouts` Livelihoods in North Unguja and Micheweni Pemba

Funded by

Embassy of Finland in Tanzania

The project titled as Adaptive Entrepreneurship for Young Women School Dropouts` Livelihood in North Unguja and Micheweni Pemba is a 24-month initiative funded by the Finnish Embassy of Dar es Salaam and implemented by ZAFAYCO. This project aims to enhance the leadership, entrepreneurship, saving, lending, and financial literacy skills of 120 young women who have dropped out of school, targeting coastal communities in North Unguja and Micheweni Pemba to improve their livelihoods. The project focuses on forming and formalizing 15 business groups and connecting these groups with mentors and financial institutions for technical and financial support. To achieve these goals, the project identified and recruited 120 young women, provided comprehensive training, and encouraged the utilization of oceanic resources for economic gain. As of month 17, the project has made significant progress, surpassing initial expectations. All 120 participants have been recruited and trained, forming 15 business groups, with their business plans nearing completion. Many participants have demonstrated high enthusiasm by starting to save and engage in entrepreneurial activities immediately after training. They have pursued additional hands-on skills, generating 15 promising business ideas, including cooking, bed sheet embroidery, handmade accessories, seaweed fragrance production, clothing design, fruit processing, and beauty and cosmetics. The project currently finalize business plans, provide additional support to groups needing help with idea development and funding access, and continue promoting business groups to potential funders and financial institutions. ZAFAYCO remains optimistic about the project`s potential, noting the high enthusiasm and early successes of the participants. With continued support, these young women are well-positioned to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to their communities` economic growth.