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The Business Networking Forum and Trade Fair 2024, Yola, Nigeria

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In an effort to catalyze investment and stimulate regional development, the Business Networking Forum and Trade Fair 2024 took place in Yola, Nigeria, on May 16-17. Under the Feed the Future Initiative, the U.S. government’s global hunger and food security program, this event focused on the theme “Reaching the Last Mile with Quality Product and Services, Strengthen Market Systems Resilience and Enhance Sustainable Economy in the Northeast.” The forum brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to discuss, network, and explore opportunities for sustainable growth and development in the region. We, at Startup Kano, were honored to be invited as partners, with our HR representative, Yomi Sani Ibrahim, attending the forum.             Day 1: Setting the Stage for Development The first day of the forum was held at the Conference Hall of Muna Hotels in Yola. The event commenced with the national anthem and national prayers, setting a tone of unity and purpose. This was followed by a climate-setting session, aimed at preparing the attendees for the discussions ahead. A welcome address was delivered by the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) of the Regional Resilience Alliance (RRA), who provided an insightful overview of RRA’s approach to fostering resilience and sustainable development in Northeast Nigeria. The keynote address was given by Gafai Yunusa, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P). Yunusa’s speech highlighted the critical role of agribusiness in regional development and the potential for transformative growth through strategic investments and partnerships. Sharing Experiences and Learning The session on sharing experiences and learning was particularly enlightening. Private sector partners presented case studies showcasing the successful implementation of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), inclusive business models, and nutrition-focused initiatives. These presentations demonstrated the tangible benefits of innovative approaches in enhancing resilience and driving economic growth at the community level. this was followed by a crucial policy presentation on the ease of doing business in Northeast Nigeria provided valuable insights into the regulatory and business environment of the region. After which a presentation from RRA on lessons learned regarding private sector investment in Northeast Nigeria was delivered. The discussion underscored the importance of creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and highlighted strategies for overcoming common challenges faced by investors in the region. Day 2: Networking and Exhibition The second day of the forum was dedicated to exhibition, fairs, and networking, providing a platform for stakeholders to showcase their products and services, exchange ideas, and forge new business linkages. This precious day began with another welcome address by the RRA DCOP, setting the stage for a day of dynamic interactions and opportunities for collaboration. Exhibitions and Networking The exhibition segment featured a diverse array of products and services from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Northeast marketplace. This was an excellent opportunity for businesses to gain market exposure and for attendees to witness the vast potential of the region’s marketplace. Furthermore, there was a key highlight of the day was the session on standardization and product quality expectations. This discussion emphasized the importance of adhering to quality standards to enhance marketability and competitiveness. The session provided practical insights into how businesses can meet these standards and leverage them to gain a competitive edge. Reflections and Takeaways Our participation in the Business Networking Forum and Trade Fair 2024 was a rewarding experience. The event not only validated the potential of RRA-supported business models but also identified numerous opportunities for scaling private sector investments sustainably. The emphasis on creating business linkages and promoting market exposure was particularly beneficial, fostering increased collaboration among stakeholders. Yomi Sani Ibrahim, representing Startup Kano, engaged with various partners and stakeholders, exchanging ideas and exploring potential collaborations. The insights gained from the event will undoubtedly inform our strategies and initiatives as we continue to support and empower startups and businesses in Kano and beyond. The Business Networking Forum and Trade Fair 2024 was a resounding success, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue, learning, and networking. As we move forward, we are excited about the prospects of leveraging these insights and connections to drive sustainable economic growth and resilience in the Northeast and across Nigeria.          

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Introducing CRC – Citizen Reporting Cross-Platform

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In every community, the voices of its citizens are the foundation of progress. However, the lack of efficient and user-friendly platforms for citizens to report and address local issues has long been a barrier to realizing community accountability, transparency, and collaboration between citizens and government agencies. More issues regarding the likes of infrastructure, waste management concerns and public safety hazards, persist due to the lack of accessible reporting mechanisms. Recognizing these challenges, there’s a pressing need for innovative solutions, and Startup Kano leads the charge in developing and implementing such a solution known as CRC – Citizen Reporting Cross-Platform. This platform aims to bridge the gap between citizens and local authorities. Importance of CRC: The importance of having a Citizen Reporting Cross-Platform cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital tool for enhancing community accountability, transparency, and collaboration. By empowering citizens to report local issues, the CRC platform facilitates timely responses from authorities, leading to more efficient problem-solving and resource allocation. It strengthens the relationship between citizens and local authorities, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for community development. In a rapidly evolving world, the CRC empowers communities to drive positive change and build a brighter future for all. Empowering the Youth, Women and PWDs It is crucial to emphasize gender and social inclusion, particularly for women, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and vulnerable groups. By providing a platform for all members of the community to voice their concerns and participate in decision-making processes, regardless of gender, ability, or social status, the CRC initiative will promote inclusivity and ensure that marginalized voices are heard and respected. Funding and Support Crucial to the success of the CRC initiative is the support it receives from various organizations. The project is funded through the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund Grant, administered by Leap Africa and supported by the MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Luminate Group. This support underscores the importance of community-driven initiatives in driving positive change and creating a more inclusive society. The development and implementation of Citizen Reporting Cross-Platform by Startup Kano represent a significant step towards building stronger, and more resilient communities. By empowering citizens to become active participants in addressing local issues, the CRC initiative not only enhances community accountability and transparency but also fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity. As we embark on this journey, let us embrace the power of technology and collective action to create a brighter future for all. Together, we can build communities where every voice is heard, and every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

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SIDP Policy Dialogue – Bridging the Digital Divide: A Step Towards Inclusive Digital Future

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The British Council in collaboration with the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) organized a policy dialogue of the Skills for Inclusive Digital Participation (SIDP) Programme. The event took place on Thursday, April 18, 2024, in Kano state, Nigeria. We at Startup Kano were honored to be invited as one of the only two implementing partners of the programme from phase 1 to phase 3. The theme of the dialogue, “Bridging the Digital Divide: Towards an Inclusive Digital Future for All,” resonated deeply with our mission at Startup Kano. The SIDP project, funded by the FCDO and implemented in Indonesia, Kenya, and Nigeria, aims to empower underserved communities by enhancing their digital literacy. Specifically, it addresses the challenges of digital inclusion and aims to provide access to educational and other opportunities, especially for youth, women, and People Living with Disability (PLWD). The event brought together esteemed guests, including the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Kano State, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, KSMOE, and the Secretary to the State Government, Kano state, Nigeria. Their presence underscored the importance of government support in driving initiatives for inclusive digital participation. Mrs. Oluseye Igbafe, serving as the facilitator and also a ELT, emphasized the transformative potential of technology in her address: “As we keep on with this transformative journey towards inclusive digital participation, it’s essential to recognize the profound impact technology can have on our lives. With each step we take, let us remember that technology has the power to bridge socioeconomic divides, create opportunities for all, and ultimately, pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.” Lucy Pearson, who happens to be the Country Director of British Council Nigeria, highlighted the importance of collaboration and showed how we can harness the transformative potential of digital technology by working together. In her speech, she said that “The Phase 1, 2, and 3 of the SIDP have been an absolute success. A large number of individuals in several local government areas have strongly benefited from this program. We will continue to stand hand in hand with governments and communities. Together, we have the opportunity to harness the transformative potential of digital technology, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution. By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, we can create a society where women, youth and PLWD have equal access to the opportunities afforded by the digital age.” Midway in the programme, Gladys Gatiba, SIDP Programme Manager at British Council Kenya, joined the dialogue via Google Meet, providing an overview of the project’s progress and impact. “Through the collaborative efforts of the SIDP Programme, we have opened doors of opportunity for thousands of individuals. From the beginning of the SIDP project till date, we have been able to cover 15 local governments. 4,100 beneficiaries benefitted from basic, 1,694 beneficiares did intermediate and we’ve reached over 10,000 people in participating countries. From teaching basic to intermediate digital skills, our aim goes beyond closing the digital divide; we strive to build bridges that lead to a future where everyone can flourish in the digital age. By empowering communities, fostering innovation, and embracing inclusivity, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous society.” The SSA ICT to the Kano State governor shared a goodwill message, expressing the state government’s commitment to boosting digital literacy initiatives: “In our unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter tomorrow, it’s imperative to recognize that digital literacy is not merely a skill but a catalyst for empowerment and progress. As we forge ahead, the Kano State government reaffirms its commitment to empowering our youth through initiatives that promote digital inclusion. By partnering with the likes of the British Council and equipping them with the necessary skills and resources, we can pave the way for a future where every individual can thrive in the digital landscape.” The dialogue concluded with a renewed sense of commitment from all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards bridging the digital divide and creating a more inclusive digital future for all.

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