Committees

INTRODUCTION

The Education and Training Committee created the AWADA-ADG Skill Acquisition Project which birthed UDA Entrepreneurship Scheme

A framework for;

• Entrepreneurship

• Re-orientation

• Skills Development

Designed for for Amuvi youths and approved by ADG. Formally inaugurated on Saturday October 3, 2020.

MISSION

Create a local economic development platform to achieve sustainable economic growth and development to reduce poverty, social vices and improve quality of life in Amuvi.

• Value Reorientation Training

To achieve a community of our dream, predicated on the principles of economic sustainability, we found it necessary to begin by embarking on massive sensitization and related training to usher in value re-orientation, thereby identify the challenges related to values;

• Evolve appropriate value orientation that will drive emerging enterprises;

• Install a culture of transparency and accountability;

• Elevate core values that will guide the evolved society of our dream;

• Delineate clear principles for building an economically sustainable society.

This kicked-off in January, 2021 and is being sustained periodically

• Vocational Training by Industrial Training (ITF)

The vocational curricula amplifies the framework with the objective to equip the youths with such skills to be self-employed or gain wage-employment and provide alternative employment opportunities via co-operatives and entrepreneurships. We partner with the ITF Area Office at Enugu on vocational skills development and nine batches of trainees have passed through the scheme.

• Apprenticeship/Master Craftsmen attachment

Afterthe vocationaltraining,the candidates are awarded proficiencycertificates and given start-up packs which qualify them for attachment with experienced master craftsmen in their fields for hands-on and on-the-job experience and acquisition of business management rudiments and principles. Craftsmen who are operating in Arochukwu and nearby environments were identified and are being used to reduce associated costs.

• Business Start-up (empowerment)

At the completion of the attachment program, the candidates would have been fully prepared to go into various skill areas and pursue the occupation, yet under thewatchful guidance of advisors until they are fully established. The beauty of our entrepreneurial framework is that it is an integrated process, with inbuilt mechanisms to ensure that trainees who go through it come out successful.

Success here is defined as when the trainees can set-up and sustain business operation over a period of about 3 years.

• Monitoring and Evaluation

This last phase closes the loop by ensuring that while operating businesses on their own, the monitoring and evaluation team will bewatching the trainees closelyuntil theyqualify to exit the scheme. By implication, there are limited chances of those that meticulously go through the processes failing to succeed.

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMITTEE

aa. Value reorientation

• January 2021, 71 youths registered, 61 were successful at training and enrolled in the scheme.

b. Vocational training

• 2021 and 2022, 51 youths, 4 from Asaga were all trained in various skills in Enugu and Nsukka.

c. Apprenticeship/Attachment

28 youths started in 2022, 15 successfully finished.

36 at various stages:

• 12 Challenges with finding craftsmen, etc.

• 11 Finished vocational training in Nov, 2022, awaiting placement and 13 Failed performance assessment, so given 6 months extension. They have just finished and may be empowered in September 2024

d. Empowerment

• 10 skilled artisans of batch 1 were empowered in January, 2021.

• 15 finished apprenticeship in March/April, 2023, were empowered on September 22, 2023.

• 7 partly empowered by ITF (farming, catering, solar).
  

UDA PALM-OIL PROCESSING MILL

AWU-ADG, in collaboration with Inyom Amuvi (Amuvi Women) under the aegis of Onyemaranwanneya,applied and won theUnited States of America Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Program grant in Nigeria for 2021 worth about $10,000.

The funds enabled the establishment of Uda Palm Oil processing mill in Amuvi as follows:

• With counterpart funds from AWU-ADG,a complete set of palm oil milling machines were procured and installed (Include Pictures) and key staff sourced.

• An arrangement with rural women under Uda-Amuvi Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd was initiallyproposed to operationalize themill but the effort did not succeed as planned. Full take-off was planned for mid-June, 2023 but it also failed due to issues associated with effective take-over by Inyom Amuvi and finding a suitable management team. A tripartite team comprising AWADA, ADG and Onyemaranwaneya is currently working to find a solution to ensure that the mill starts operation soonest.

• It is estimated that in the immediate to short term future,about 50people from the community shall be direct beneficiaries, with women accounting for 70percent, with 250 indirect beneficiaries.

CHALLENGES

a. Funds to empower those that have finished apprenticeship to set them up for business

b. Funds to sponsor fresh trainees in the approved tuition-free vocational skills. Many youths are eager to get an opportunity, but it is important that this happens systematically. Renovation of the training spot at Amuvi is required to ensure that we enhance operational scope and take on more youths.

Our immediate needs include:

i. Additional hands to serve in the scheme’s management and monitoring/evaluation.

ii. Funds to empower trainees who finished apprenticeship based on expert

iii. Funds for additional training of youths on our waiting list.

CONCLUSION

The whole essence of this scheme is to train and set-up artisans in various trades such

• enhance the economic wellbeing of the community,

• become pacesetters to other youths

• and avoid the many vices associated with idleness.

This is the primary objective which the entrepreneurship project promised to achieve at inception, a community development initiative that requires maximum support by all and sundry for success to be attained.

We identified the fact that developing the human capacity in our community and equipping them with meaningful entrepreneurship skills is the surest route to solving some of the major malaise currently plaguing our society.

ADG trainees are adding value to the economic life of the community as most of them are gainfully employed doing positive things.

This is aside from keeping them away from social vices and having them serve as models to other youths. Our success rate currently is over 60% while the ITF validated average is about 35%.

INTRODUCTION

The Electricity Committee is set up to:

1. Revitalize Existing Electricity Infrastructure in Amuvi

2. Empower The Community Through Sustainable Energy Solutions Electricity Committee

Notes:

a. Electricity service for Arochukwu town is serviced by Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).

b. Amuvi is served through a 33KV Distribution feeder from Itu in Cross River state (approx. 50 Km to Arochukwu.)

c. The feeder passes through other rural communities and heavy vegetation and has frequent long-term outages.

d. An alternate 132KV transmission line and local transmission substation have been delayed for over 20 years.

e. Electric customer homes in the Amuvi community are locally served through five (300KVA each) distribution substation transformers and 415V distribution lines.

MISSION

Ensure Reliability and Efficiency of Electrical Systems in our Community to Enhance Safety.

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE ELECTRICTY COMMITTEE

Renewable Energy Supply Initiative:

• The Solar Street Light Effort – Light Up Amuvi Phase 2 (Pictures of completed, Quote number installed, how many more needed, show pictures of kids studying under street lights, small commercial activities, Provide Estimates in USD).

• Rooftop solar efforts for other community assets – HealthcareCentre, Elementaryand Secondary Schools, etc. (Pictures of community assets, Provide Estimates in USD).

CHALLENGES

Some factors that impact service recovery after a failure/fault occurs are:

a. damaged transformers

b. broken electrical poles

c. sagging or exposed wires

d. burnt equipment e vandalized Equipment

f. outdated equipment

g. unauthorized network changes by frustrated customers

h. overgrown vegetation around equipment i people & Financial resource constraints

a. Enhance and maximize utilization of existing infrastructure • Restoration of all 3-phases of existing transformers and networks (Provide Estimates in USD) • Procurement and installation of additional assets (Provide Estimates in USD)

CONCLUSION

The Electricity Committee is committed to revitalizing the electricity infrastructure in Amuvi and empowering the community through sustainable energy solutions.

Our comprehensive plan outlines a clear roadmap for upgrading the existing infrastructure, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy sources.

By implementing these recommendations, we aim to:

– Enhance the reliability and quality of electricity supply

– Reduce energy poverty and increase access to affordable energy

– Promote environmental sustainability and reduce carbon footprint

We believe that a reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving community. We are dedicated to working collaboratively with stakeholders, including the community, government agencies, and private sector partners, to achieve our vision of a brighter, more sustainable future for Amuvi. Together, we can illuminate the path to prosperity and empower the community to reach its full potential.

INTRODUCTION

a. Amuvi Water Supply network was installed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2010, due to lack of maintenance this went into disrepair.

b. The creation of the (Amuvi Development Group) ADG in May 2020, revamped the water facility that has spoilt the environment for many years.

MISSION

– Rehabilitate and upgrade aging water infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce losses

– Enhance water quality through effective treatment and monitoring systems

– Increase access to water for underserved communities and vulnerable populations

– Promote water conservation and sustainability through education and community engagement

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE WATER COMMITTEE

Period June 2020 and December 2021.

1. Repair of the back-flow problem at the pumps discharge at the well head which created an environmental damage, flooded houses and adjoining roads such that houses were abandoned for many years. (Cost expended in USD, Before and After Pictures)

2. Three well pumps were extracted and serviced. Two new pumps were procured to replace. A third pump is still not in service and may need to be repaired or replaced (Cost expended in USD, Before and After Pictures)

3. The water filtration plant was serviced. (Cost expended in USD, Before and After Pictures)

4. Leakages on the water tank were repaired. Large amount of rust was removed as it was serviced and internally repainted. (Cost expended in USD, Before and After Pictures)

CHALLENGES

a. Setting up an effective maintenance team

b. Carrying out repairs and house-keeping tasks around the wellhead

c. Installing the water distribution in and around the village. (Cost in USD, Satellite Picture of the proposed project)

CONCLUSION

The ADG Water Committee has made significant strides in revitalizing the existing community water infrastructure, bringing us closer to our vision of a thriving community with access to abundant, clean water. Through our collective efforts, we have:

– Upgraded critical infrastructure, reducing water losses and improving efficiency

– Enhanced water quality, ensuring a safer and healthier supply for all residents

While challenges remain, we have designed and plan to embank on installing a water distribution network in d Amuvi village.

Our progress has not only improved the physical water infrastructure but also strengthened community bonds and trust.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission, ensuring that every resident of Amuvi has access to clean, safe, and reliable water, empowering them to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. Together, we have revitalized more than just tank and pumps – we have revitalized the lifeblood of our community.

INTRODUCTION

The Agribusiness and Food Security Committee was established by the Amuvi Development Group Management Team (ADGMT) with the following objectives:

1. Brainstorm and Identify Projects: Discuss and agree on impactful projects.

2. Proposal Preparation: Develop detailed proposals for selected projects.

3. Approval Process: Present proposals and budget requirements to ADGMT for approval.

4. Funding Collaboration: Partner with the ADG Finance Committee to secure funding for approved projects.

5. Implementation and Publication: Collaborate with ADGMT to implement projects and share progress with the community and beyond.

MISSION

Our mission is to conduct comprehensive agribusiness analyses, evaluate investment opportunities, cultivate partnerships, encourage research and innovation, monitor performance indicators, provide training and development opportunities, and develop and evaluate policies that ensure a resilient and sustainable agribusiness sector for the benefit of all stakeholders.

ACHIEVEMENT OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY COMMITTEE

Ongoing Projects and Initiatives Our current projects, though in their early stages, are set to make a significant impact: 1.Oil Mill Fencing: Securing the oil mill premises.

2.Oil Mill Outsourcing: Partnering with a reputable firm for management.

3. Support for Cooperative Societies: Assisting Amuviansin forming agric-based cooperative societies.

4.Community Engagement: Raising awareness about the latest farming practices.

5. Tree Cultivation: Promoting the cultivation of trees.

6. Resource Provision: Offering resources and support to Amuvians interested in agribusiness. 

7. Encouraging a mini farm in each household in Amuvi 

CHALLENGES

1. Labor Shortages: Migration of young people to urban areas often results in a shortage of labour. This affects agricultural productivity as there may not be enough hands to work on the farms as older individuals may have limitations in terms of energy and capacity to work on the farms.

2. Land Neglect: With fewer individuals to work on the land, there is a risk of abandonment or neglect of agricultural land in villages. This can lead to decreased agricultural output and land degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the Agriculture and Food Security Committee has diligently analysed the challenges and opportunities facing our community in relation to agriculture and food security. Through robust discussions and thorough research, we have identified key areas for improvement and outlined actionable recommendations to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food sustainability, and empower our farmers.

It is evident that by prioritizing investments in agricultural infrastructure, technology, and capacity building, we can unlock the potential of our agricultural sector and improve the livelihoods of our community members. Collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector partners, will be crucial in implementing our proposed strategies effectively.

As we move forward, we must remain committed to the goals of achieving food security, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and fostering economic development in Amuvi community. By working together and embracing innovation, we can create a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector that will benefit present and future generations.

INTRODUCTION

The ADG Finance Committee is tasked to Develop and implement fundraising strategies and campaigns.

• Seek and secure financial support from donors, sponsors, and partners.

• Establish and maintain relationships with existing donors.

• Explore grant opportunities and manage the application process.

• Work with each ADG Committee to raise funds for an approved project with its budget.

• Monitor and report on the financial status of fundraising activities.

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to maximize fundraising impact.

MISSION

To develop and implement effective fundraising strategies that secure financial support from donors, sponsors, and partners. We aim to establish and maintain relationships with existing donors, explore grant opportunities, and work collaboratively with all ADG Committees to raise funds for approved projects. Our commitment is to monitor and report on the financial status of fundraising activities while collaborating with stakeholders to maximize our fundraising impact and support the mission of the organization.

CHALLENGES

1. Competition for Funding: There may be a high level of competition for funding from donors, sponsors, and partners, making it challenging to secure the necessary financial support. 

2. Donor Fatigue: Donors, especially existing Amuvi indigenes, may experience donor fatigue, where they are inundated with requests for support for the various community projects, leading to a decrease in donations.

3. Economic Conditions: Economic downturns impact the willingness and ability of donors to provide financial support, making fundraising efforts more challenging.

4. Lack of Awareness: Limited awareness about ADG’s mission and impact make it challenging to attract new donors and sponsors.

5. Adapting to Trends: Keeping up with evolving trends in fundraising, such as digital fundraising strategies and crowdfunding, has been slow in By proactively addressing these challenges through strategic planning, effective communication, and continuous assessment and improvement of fundraising strategies, the ADG Finance Committee can enhance their ability to fulfil their duties successfully.