The Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN) conducted an introductory workshop on the 9 th of December in Aden to introduce its new project ”MORE – Maximizing Opportunities for Rural Entrepreneurs” which is executed by the Network in partnership with Mercy Corps. The workshop was aimed at introducing the project which works on developing sesame supply chain starting with the farmers until the final customer.
The project provides the complete support for the sesame production throughout its supply chain including the creation of synergies between farmers, producers and distributors as well as connecting them with the financial institutions that will support to establish a sustainable system for all members working in the sector. The 36 month program is aiming to improve incomes through strategic in sesame value chain and increase the income of small holder farmers and sesame oil processors.
During the workshop the Managing Director of YMN Mr.Ali Abutaleb illustrated the role that YMN plays in this project and how it will support in establishing financial products that meets the demands of the farmers and producers of this product.
On the other hand, Mr. Salahdeen Mohammed the Managing Director of the project presented the key agricultural and economic attributes for sesame as a product and how enhancing and developing the production of sesame will create further job opportunities especially in the subjected areas on which the project is executed.
Additionally Mr. Mohammed demonstrated the key financial demands and requirements of sesame farmers and how these needs can be matches by the Microfinance Institutions in Yemen.
The workshop was attended by most member MFIs working in the areas of the project that include the governorates Aden, Lahj, Al-Hodeida, Taiz and Abyan. 40 participants attended the workshop from the following organizations:
– Al- Amal Microfinance Bank.
– Nama Microfinance Program.
– Aden Microfinance Foundation.
– Women Association for Sustainable Development.
– CAC Bank.
– Alawael Microfinance.
– The National Microfinance Foundation.
– Tadhamon Microfinance.
– Microfinance (Abyan).
Worth Mentioning that the project is funded by the European Commission and runs for 3 years.
