Gbarnga – The Bong County chapter of the Unity Party has launched a youth empowerment initiative valued at L$1.6 million, aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs across the county.
By Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com
The program, fully funded by the party’s county chairperson, Martha C. T. Morris, was unveiled on Sunday, March 22, at the party’s headquarters in Gbarnga, drawing scores of beneficiaries, supporters, and local leaders.
The Youth Business Grant Program is designed to provide financial assistance and material support to young people seeking to establish or expand small businesses.
According to organizers, the initiative reflects a commitment by the party’s leadership to invest in grassroots development and economic empowerment following the electoral process.
Speaking at the launch, Madam Morris, who also serves as Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Health, said the initiative is a direct response to the sacrifices and contributions made by young people during the campaign period. She emphasized that the program is not only about financial support but also about building sustainable livelihoods.
“This initiative is very personal to me because I have seen the level of dedication and commitment our young people demonstrated during the campaign. Many of them stood with us, believed in our vision, and worked tirelessly. Today, we are not just saying thank you, we are investing in their future and giving them the tools to succeed,” Morris said.
She further explained that the program is intended to serve as a foundation for long term economic growth in Bong County by nurturing entrepreneurship among youth and reducing unemployment.
“We cannot continue to talk about development without putting resources into the hands of young people. This grant program is about creating opportunities, building confidence, and ensuring that our youth can stand on their own and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” she added.
Providing additional insight into her motivation, Morris noted that the initiative was inspired by the need to bridge the gap between political support and tangible benefits for ordinary citizens.
“I decided to take this step because I believe leadership must go beyond promises. Our people need to see real impact in their lives. When young people are empowered economically, it strengthens families, communities, and the entire county,” she said.
In another remark, she urged beneficiaries to take the opportunity seriously and use the resources provided to create lasting change.
“I want each beneficiary to understand that this is a seed. What you do with it will determine your future. Use it wisely, grow your businesses, and become examples for others to follow,” Morris cautioned.
According to the organizers, the first phase of the program targets 28 beneficiaries, each of whom will receive a combination of cash support and essential business materials tailored to their respective ventures. The initiative is expected to expand in subsequent phases to reach more young people across the county.
In addition to the business grant program, Madam Morris announced plans for another major intervention focused on education. She disclosed that the next phase of the party’s efforts will include the launch of the Bong County University Scholarship Program, which is expected to benefit up to 200 students in the upcoming semester.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from attendees, many of whom see education and entrepreneurship as critical pillars for the county’s development.
Beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed gratitude to the Unity Party Bong leadership and Madam Morris for what they described as a life changing opportunity.
One beneficiary said, “This support means everything to me. I have been struggling to start my business, but today I have hope that I can finally begin and support my family.”
Another recipient noted, “We worked hard during the campaign, and seeing this kind of support after the elections shows that the leadership has not forgotten us. I will use this opportunity to build something meaningful.”
A third beneficiary described the program as timely, adding, “Jobs are not easy to find, so this grant gives us a chance to create our own opportunities. I am committed to making the most of it.”
A fourth recipient emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “This is not just about individuals. When our businesses grow, it will benefit our communities as well. We are grateful for this support and will not take it for granted.”
