Basil Rahmi, the CEO of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA), has introduced the ‘Aziza’ initiative, aimed at bolstering women-owned MSMEs.
The initiative offers soft loans to women looking to improve existing enterprises or launch new ventures. It also provides extensive technical, training, and marketing support, particularly in sectors like industry, production, and agriculture.
Launched during the International Women’s Day celebrations in March, the Aziza initiative’s funding is accessible through any MSMEDA branch nationwide. Interested individuals can also dial the unified number 16733 for complete program details.
Rahmi emphasized that the initiative is in line with the government’s strategy to strengthen MSMEs, enabling them to transition into the formal economy and benefit from the Enterprise Development Law 152/2020.
The inauguration of the Aziza initiative was attended by representatives from international partner organizations and officials, showcasing MSMEDA’s strong partnerships aimed at empowering women economically and socially. Among the dignitaries were Sylvain Merlin, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, and Djibrilla Issa, World Bank’s MENA Practice Manager for Finance, Competitiveness, and Innovation.
The event also featured several notable female entrepreneurs from various manufacturing sectors such as furniture, apparel, and traditional attire. They shared how MSMEDA’s range of non-financial services had played a crucial role in sustaining and expanding their businesses, with participation in exhibitions like the recurring “Turathna Exhibition” being cited as a significant boost to their product marketing efforts.