The Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Programme, in collaboration with the Organisation for Women in Self Employment (WISE), is making significant strides in empowering Ethiopian migrants. This initiative, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by returnees and potential migrants. Through targeted training, the programme equips participants with the skills needed to forge their own economic pathways.
In total, the BRMM Programme has trained 1,011 individuals, comprising 660 returned migrants in Addis Ababa and 351 potential migrants in Asella Town. The training is structured across six intensive rounds, each lasting 15 consecutive days. This comprehensive approach focuses on enhancing entrepreneurial skills, empowering participants to establish and sustain their own businesses effectively.
A standout feature of this partnership is the business plan competition, which operates under the ILO’s Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) initiative. This competition allows trainees to apply their theoretical knowledge practically, bridging the gap between learning and real-world application. Out of 142 business plan submissions from returnees, a panel of judges selected 30 winners, highlighting the initiative’s success in fostering entrepreneurial growth.
The business plan competition has not only motivated participants but also served as a vital platform for entrepreneurial development. By encouraging critical and strategic thinking about their business ideas, the competition fosters a sense of accomplishment among participants. Winners receive various forms of support, including seed funding, which is crucial for bringing their business ideas to fruition. This strategy not only aids individual entrepreneurs but also stimulates job creation and economic diversification within the local economy.
The collaboration between BRMM and WISE exemplifies the importance of tailored interventions that address the distinct challenges of returnees and potential migrants. By focusing on entrepreneurial skills, the programme empowers participants to take control of their economic futures. Additionally, this initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainable livelihoods for migrant workers, supporting their successful reintegration into their home communities.
By ensuring that returned migrants are active participants in creating economic opportunities, the programme promotes self-reliance and resilience among the migrant community. The success stories emerging from this initiative underscore the impact of targeted support and training, illustrating how such programmes can drive meaningful change.
Overall, the ILO BRMM Programme is playing a pivotal role in fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among Ethiopia’s migrant population. By equipping individuals with the skills and resources they need to thrive, the programme is contributing to a more resilient and economically empowered community, ultimately enhancing the prospects for sustainable development in the region.