A National Entrepreneurship Strategy discussion is underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with the intent to help the youth and bring about development in doing so. The strategy discussion is organized by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, with the support of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
Formulated based on international best practices and tested by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the National Entrepreneurship Strategy covers three cross-cutting areas in the rural-urban linkage, women and youth entrepreneurship, and green economy.
Philippe Rudaz, UNCTAD Economic Affairs Officer, speaking to ENA, said in a country where there are great entrepreneurs such a national strategy which includes local, regional, private sector and international partners is crucial to empower women and youth socially and economically.
The strategy is expected to create synergy among the different policy and strategy initiatives that are underway in the country as well as identify and address gaps in various policies while providing guidance in creating an enabling environment for the development of entrepreneurship.
Asegid Adane, UNCTAD National Program Officer, for his part, said included in the strategy are: easing the regulatory framework, appreciating technological approach and innovation. He emphasized the need to network and synergize the fragmented activities performed by development partners and other actors. Local producers should also be encouraged by the government via varied instruments in creating market linkage, Mr. Asegid further noted.
Asfaw Abebe, Director-General of the Federal Small and Medium Manufacturing Industry Promotion Authority, vowing the authority will provide technology, finance, and capacity building in the manufacturing sector, urged all actors, including the private sector, to help potential youth, women and farmer entrepreneurs.
The workshop, which started yesterday, will conclude today.
Source: ENA