The first session of the training workshop organised by the Women Up Association themed “Women and trade: Improving conditions for success in development”, took place at the Garoua City Council Hall today, 11 March 2025.

The workshop was officially launched by Mrs. Atta Julienne, Treasurer at the Nord Regional Council. She was assisted by Mrs. Caroline Megang Nguelaly, National President of Women Up Africa; Mrs. Claire Onana Takouchop, representative of the General Manager of the Cameroon National Shippers' Council (CNSC), and Mrs. Hamadou Kadiza, Regional President of the Women Up Association.

The interactive discussion session was attended by over 230 women from several towns in the northern regions: Guider, Bibemi, Figuier, Mao Oulou, Lagdo, Pitoa, Adamoua, Touroua, Ngaoundere, Garoua Centre and Mayo Tsanaga.

The first talk of the day was given by Mrs. Armelle Makasso, CNSC Sub-Director for Shippers' Assistance, and focused on the role of women in regional economic development, with particular emphasis on standards and certifications. The second presentation centred on women's entrepreneurship and was delivered by Mr. Sali Mana, an accredited consultant with the SME Promotion Agency in the north region. The latter outlined all the support programs put in place by various institutions to help women associations, CIGs or cooperatives.

Day 2 of the workshop will feature speakers from MUPECI, CNSC and the National Leader of Women Up.