JA Mauritius has expanded the JA ITS TYME Program to support women entrepreneurs on the Rodrigues Island with support from Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). Eighty women entrepreneurs have signed up for the program which will build their capacity to become micro-entrepreneurs, while teaching them the important steps in managing their businesses and finances.
Rodrigues is a constituent island of the Republic of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. It has a population of 43,538 and its economy is mainly based on agriculture, handicrafts and fishing. Also known for its high prevalence of matrifocal families, Rodrigues is an island where women take responsibility for their families. Statistics on small production units by industry groups show that more women are involved as employers or self-employed in industrial activities such as manufacturing and food service activities. The program will enable women entrepreneurs in Rodrigues to progress and develop their businesses through innovation and creativity. Regardless of their level of academic education, this project will give women the opportunity to become a key partner in the economic activities of Rodrigues.
Speaking about the program on Rodrigues FM, Executive Director of JA Mauritius, Michele Lionnet said, “It has been a great pleasure for JA Mauritius to successfully start the implementation of JA ITS TYME in Rodrigues. We have greatly appreciated the support of the Women’s Commission in Rodrigues. The enthusiastic response of beneficiaries confirmed that the program responds to a need. Our thanks also go to OIF for its financial Support.”
