…Small-time business owners excited, hopeful
From Desmond Mgboh, Kano
Sabon-gari, an old settlement for visiting communities in Kano, is a fascinating bedlam of people of diverse social, ethnic and economic backgrounds. A century-old settlement in the ancient city of Kano, it plays host to a number of tribes and nationalities in Nigeria as well as foreigners, some of whom have since naturalised.
But a more significant fact is that the settlement is a hub of private sector commercial activities, with businesses thriving in different directions and gears. Not fortunate to enjoy significant empowerments from governance actors, the settlement very often depends on its own energy for its survival.
Linda Uchenna Ugwueze is Executive Director, Ulin Support Initiative. She has lived in Sabon-Gari right from childhood. In the years gone by, she nurtured a vision to leverage on these vibrant people, their energies and economy, to improve their own lives and better their fortunes.
She told Daily Sun: “I am from Anambra State, married to a man from Enugu State. Ulin Support Initiative was born in Sabon-Gari. It came to existence out of my passion to do more for my place of birth and humanity.
“We are a household name in Sabon-Gari. This is largely because of our ideas. Our ideas, especially our annual trade fair, have been impacting the lives of people here. And they are appreciative really.
“Sabon- Gari Trade Fair is our unique project. It is targeted at empowering vendors and smallscale business owners. You know the popular adage; ‘Teach me to fish and…’
“Our vision is to raise a community of self-reliant people, especially women and youth. You can clearly see that it has not been easy with them in the present circumstance.
“We are also committed to reducing the burden on the search for white collar jobs, including encouraging everyone to start earning and creating a brand for themselves.”
The two-day trade fair was held recently on the open field of Kwakwashi Primary School. Despite the harsh economic conditions in the country, the traffic of visitors was modestly high. Residents turned to buy or to avail themselves with the various trading opportunities and items on display.
Emeka a media practitioner with a private radio television station in the state said: “That initiative is unique. I see so many good things coming out of it.
“Despite a few challenges, there were many things at the fair that would delight anybody whose goal is to do good business and make good money.”
Mama Bose, a mother of three, lives on Church Road, Sabon-Gari. She admitted that it was an eye-opener: “Many small-time business women showcased what they sell at the fair.”