Cape Verde Launches Woman Without Limits Project for Entrepreneurs
A transformative new initiative launched today in Praia is set to break down barriers for women with disabilities in Cape Verde, providing 50 participants with the tools to launch their own businesses and achieve financial independence.
Empowerment Through Education
The “Mudjer sem Limiti” (Woman Without Limits) project, organized by the Cape Verdean Association for the Promotion and Inclusion of Women with Disabilities (Apimud), offers a comprehensive 17-month curriculum. The program is designed to move beyond basic vocational training by addressing the holistic needs of aspiring entrepreneurs.
“First, they receive training in life skills, then entrepreneurship, and finally at a digital level,” explained project coordinator Rosana Carvalho. The life skills component focuses on building leadership, self-esteem, and self-knowledge—essential foundations for women who often face systemic exclusion.
Bridging the Digital and Financial Divide
The project targets 25 women in Praia and 25 in Santa Cruz. To ensure inclusivity across the disability spectrum, the organizers have specifically reserved 10 spots for women with visual impairments and 10 for those with hearing impairments. The remaining 30 positions are open to women with other types of disabilities.
Beyond education, the initiative provides practical support to ensure these businesses thrive, including:
- Startup Kits: Providing the essential tools and materials to begin operations.
- Mentoring: Pairing participants with experienced professionals for guidance.
- Psychological Support: Helping participants navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
- Digital Literacy: Equipping women with the tech skills needed to compete in a modern economy.
Fighting Stigma and Building Markets
With a total budget of 2.15 million escudos (€19,500) funded by the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the project also aims to shift social perceptions. A portion of the funding will be dedicated to community actions designed to reduce the stigma and discrimination that frequently prevent people with disabilities from participating in the labor market.
The program will culminate in Cape Verde’s first-ever entrepreneurship fair specifically for people with disabilities. This landmark event will serve as a platform for participants to showcase their new businesses to the public and potential investors.
Apimud President Eurídice Andrade emphasized the urgency of the project, noting that women with disabilities continue to face significant hurdles in accessing education and employment. “Mudjer sem Limiti” represents a vital step toward a more inclusive Cape Verdean economy where every woman has the opportunity to succeed.
Image: Pexels – Marcus Aurelius
