Revolutionizing Social Protection: Small-Scale Farmers, Farming Collectives, and Vulnerable Women Take Center Stage

Through its National Pathway for Food Systems Transformation, Guyana is strategically poised to bolster rural livelihoods, diversify the economy, and advance the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)'s regional food security agenda via the implementation of the 'Twenty-Five by 2025 Initiative'. In alignment with this national endeavor, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have extended their support through the Joint SDG Fund, facilitating the mission to expand social protection in Guyana. In collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) provided a one-time cash grant to participants of the Women Innovation and Investment Programme (WIIN), also known as 'WIIN in Business'. This initiative aims to empower women and girls by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance their economic involvement in their communities. As part of the program, the Ministry organized a workshop focused on developing business skills, including creating business plans, networking, and accessing finance. Participants were encouraged to propose income-generating activities and subsequently received a cash grant from the Ministry, supported by the WFP, to address immediate needs and support their proposed ventures. Approximately USD $79,000 was distributed among 225 participants nationwide, with the goal of generating economic opportunities that improve community livelihoods and resilience. Participants expressed their plans to utilize the cash grant for business expansion, while others expressed gratitude for the opportunity to start their businesses earlier than expected. The WFP provided technical assistance to the Ministry in various aspects of program management, and explored long-term capacity-building for small-scale farmers, especially women participants. The FAO, in collaboration with other agricultural organizations, conducted a workshop to educate farmers on cost-effective alternatives for feed and fertilizer, benefiting both male and female farmers. Moving forward, farmers will receive input supplies from the FAO, while the government aims to expand social protection and introduce new labor market strategies.

Source(Department of Public Information, 2023)

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2 Jun 2023 17:00 | by anaraine