Bintu Jibao, one of 18 women selected for the UNDP Growth Accelerator Programme, is making strides in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector. Her business, Nyanda Enterprise, is dedicated to adding value to staple crops like cassava, groundnuts, pepper, and rice, with a focus on empowering women in agriculture.
With the support of the Growth Accelerator Programme, Bintu has been able to enhance her business operations significantly. The assistance provided by UNDP is divided into four tranches, each targeting a specific aspect of business development. So far, Bintu has received two tranches, both of which have been crucial for Nyanda Enterprise’s growth.
The first tranche enabled Bintu to acquire and install a solar energy system at her processing center. This sustainable power solution has ensured a reliable energy supply, vital for maintaining consistent production levels. The second tranche, which is currently underway, is focused on mechanizing Nyanda Enterprise’s production processes. This support is helping Bintu acquire additional equipment and tools, allowing her to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Bintu is now looking forward to the third tranche, which will provide her with improved seed varieties. This will enable Nyanda Enterprise to enhance the quality and yield of its products, aligning with her vision of offering high-quality, valueadded agricultural products to her community.
Beyond financial and material support, Bintu has benefited from a series of trainings and boot camps facilitated by Aurora Foundation. These programs have equipped her with essential skills in goal setting, growth planning, financial literacy, and marketing strategies. Through these trainings, Bintu has been empowered to innovate within her business, successfully introducing new products like rice flour to Nyanda Enterprise’s product line.
The Growth Accelerator Programme has played a significant role in Nyanda Enterprise’s journey towards growth and sustainability. Bintu Jibao’s experience highlights the impact of targeted support and capacity-building initiatives, offering a promising future for women entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.
