Algiers – The “ONGAM Challenge: 1000 Women – 1000 Projects” was officially launched yesterday evening in Algiers, under the patronage of the Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-Enterprises, Noureddine Ouahdouh. This initiative aims to empower women and bolster their role in the national economy.
Spearheaded by the National Agency for Microcredit Management (ONGAM), the challenge focuses on supporting investment in key sectors. These include the processing and preservation of fruits and vegetables, as well as food packaging. These areas are deemed crucial for enhancing local resources, strengthening food security, and generating employment opportunities.
Minister Ouahdouh emphasized that this initiative will significantly contribute to enhancing women’s participation in economic activity. He stated that it will enable a greater number of women to launch profitable micro-enterprises. Furthermore, the challenge is designed to preserve Algeria’s traditional heritage and develop valuable skills.
Souad Ben Djemil, Director General of ONGAM, highlighted the agency’s ambition to support and finance at least 1000 women across the country through this challenge. This aligns with the President’s program of building a productive and diversified economy.
The agency adopts a comprehensive approach that extends beyond mere financing, Ben Djemil explained. It encompasses technical support, training, networking, and marketing mechanisms. Digitalization will be leveraged to enhance project sustainability and competitiveness. She also stressed the importance of the project in supporting promising sectors, particularly the processing of fruits and vegetables and food packaging.
The ONGAM Challenge represents a significant step towards fostering female entrepreneurship and contributing to Algeria’s economic growth. The initiative is expected to have a tangible impact on local communities and the national economy as a whole.
