As part of the AVENIR Project, a series of awareness-raising workshops was organized at several universities, including the University of Kikwit and the University of Kongo, to promote agricultural and rural entrepreneurship among youth and women. This initiative aims to support entrepreneurship by financing approximately 8,500 agricultural and rural businesses, It will facilitate access to financial services and encourage the financing of viable businesses run by youth, women entrepreneurs, people living with disabilities, and indigenous peoples.These beneficiaries will have access to technical, business, and managerial support, as well as tailored financial education and management consulting to build their capacities and ensure the sustainability of their businesses. This support is essential for accessing the financing provided under the project.
It is worth noting that, among the 8,500 targeted companies, 3,000 initiatives led by idea holders will be supported through an incubation process, while the other 5,500 will benefit from accelerated training.
A Commitment to Empowering Youth and Women
The AVENIR Project, which focuses on empowerment throughthe promotion of agricultural and rural entrepreneurship,seeks to support and strengthen the capacities of youth and women by providing them with practical tools to develop viable initiatives during their incubation period.
The National Coordinator of the AVENIR Project,, M. Justinien BACIRONGO BINYOMA launched this series of information and awareness-raising workshops at the University of Kikwit, emphasizing the importance of structured support to enable youth and women to develop viable, sustainable, and bankable projects.
Interactive and inspiring workshops
These awareness-raising sessions allowed students and other segments of the population to discover the opportunities offered by the AVENIRproject, particularly through innovation, digitalization, and business models adapted to local realities. Topics covered included:

  • Opportunities in the agricultural sector ;
  • Access to cost-sharing financing for women and young entrepreneurs ;
  • Business models and sustainable development strategies;
  • The selection process for young and women entrepreneurs in the context of the AVENIR project.

Participants benefited from concrete case studies and practical advice on project management, access to financing, and marketing strategies.
A positive impact on student engagement
Early feedback indicates strong student interest in agricultural and rural entrepreneurship. Many express a desire to launch initiatives, supported by partnerships established with financial institutions and incubators.
The AVENIR Project Project continues to play a key role in transforming the agricultural sector by romoting youth and women's entrepreneurship,thereby contributing to inclusive and sustainable development.
These workshops demonstrate that agricultural and rural entrepreneurship is a dynamic and promising field, perfectly aligned with current economic and environmental challenges. Supporting youth and women in this sector is essential to building an independent, sustainable, and innovative future.

Hyperbole Mwanandeke

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