The Network of Women with Disabilities has empowered 18 of its members with industrial sewing machines after a three-month vocational training on bag making in Abuja.
The training, held on March 12, 2026, at Lelook Bags Academy, Aco Estate, Airport Road, Abuja, was organised under the #HerAfCFTA Compliant bag-making for export readiness programme.
The initiative was implemented in partnership with Lelook Bags Academy and the United Nations Development Programme to equip women, unemployed youths, and persons with disabilities with practical skills for economic participation.
The beneficiaries were presented with start-up tools to enable them to establish sustainable businesses after completing the intensive training.
The group appreciated its founder, Lois Auta, for nominating members for the programme, describing the initiative as life-changing.
It also commended Janet Abua, a member of the network, for her efforts in ensuring that the tools and machines were distributed to trainees with disabilities.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the organisers and sponsors, noting that the skills acquired would help them become self-reliant and cushion the impact of the current economic challenges.
They added that women with disabilities often face double layers of hardship, making such empowerment initiatives critical.
The organisation noted that it has continued to provide opportunities for its members, including access to grants, scholarships, and agricultural loans through collaborations with various agencies.
It added that the training has produced qualified bag makers capable of supplying products such as school bags, backpacks, lunch boxes, travel bags, handbags, and tote bags.
The Network of Women with Disabilities reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the inclusion and development of women with disabilities through partnerships and capacity-building programmes.