Hodeidah: In light of the increasing economic challenges, the importance of development initiatives that aim to empower individuals and transform them from aid recipients into producers capable of improving their living conditions emerges.
According to Yemen News Agency, the General Authority of Zakat in Al-Hodeidah Governorate launched the “Distribution of Professional Bags and Integration of 438 Beneficiaries into the Labor Market” project, which is a step towards enhancing the economic independence of the beneficiary families.
Under the slogan “A Hand that Builds and a Hand that Protects”, the project aims to give beneficiaries an opportunity to integrate into the labor market by providing them with the professional skills and tools necessary to launch small projects that generate a fixed income, achieving financial independence instead of relying on temporary assistance. During the launch of the project, Sheikh Shamsan Abu Nishtan, Chairman of the General Authority of Zakat, emphasized that this initia
tive is part of a long-term strategy aimed at achieving self-sufficiency for beneficiary families and moving them from need to production.
He stated, “We do not merely provide aid, but rather establish a better future for members of society through sustainable projects that enable them to rely on themselves. Economic empowerment is the cornerstone of building a cohesive society capable of facing challenges.” He explained that the Authority is working to expand these initiatives to include broader areas, complementing the state’s efforts to achieve sustainable development and promoting a culture of work and production instead of dependence on aid.
This day marked the beginning of a new phase for the beneficiaries, full of challenges but also hope and joy. After receiving the professional bags, many expressed their joy at this opportunity that offered them hope for a better future. Umm Muhammad, a beneficiary of the sewing and tailoring project, said: “I never imagined that I would get an opportunity like thi
s. I used to rely on simple assistance, but now I feel that I have a real opportunity to depend on myself and provide a decent life for my children.”
Abdullah, a young man who received training in mobile phone maintenance, explained: “After years of searching for work to no avail, today I am able to start my own project. I have obtained the equipment I need, and most importantly, I have learned how to invest my skills in something that benefits me.”
Mohammed Hazza, Director of the General Authority of Zakat Office in Hodeidah, stressed that the project is not limited to providing tools and equipment only but seeks to make a change in the lives of beneficiaries by supporting them with new skills that enable them to achieve sustainable income. He said: “We call on beneficiaries to make the most of what they have received, and to preserve their tools and equipment to ensure economic stability for them and their families. The success of this project depends on the commitment of the beneficiaries and their inves
tment in this opportunity.”
He pointed out that the Authority is working to provide additional support programs, including microfinance to help beneficiaries expand their projects, in addition to training workshops to enhance their professional and commercial skills, which ensures their success and continuity in the labor market.
The project benefits extend to the community by reducing unemployment rates through real job opportunities and enhancing financial independence for needy families, thus reducing dependence on aid. It also stimulates the local economy by introducing new professionals to the labor market, enhancing service levels, driving production, and spreading the culture of work and production.
Fatima, a mother of three, confirmed that the project will change her life, saying: “Today I feel that I am standing on my feet, I did not have a steady source of income, but after training in making sweets and obtaining the tools, I can now work from home, and this will give my children a better life.”
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espite the project’s success, beneficiaries aspire for more support and development, requesting microfinance programs to expand their projects and additional workshops to develop their skills, ensuring follow-up and continuous guidance. The initiative of distributing professional bags and integrating beneficiaries into the labor market is a model of economic empowerment, providing practical and sustainable solutions that improve lives and enhance societal roles as producers, not just recipients of support.
As beneficiaries embark on their new journey, their success represents an inspiring story for many and evidence that thoughtful support can change lives and create a more stable and brighter future.