ILO Launches SIYB Training of Trainers Programme to Bolster Entrepreneurship in Yemen

© ILO/ Mohamed Honenah/ November 2024/ Aden, Yemen

© ILO/ Mohamed Honenah/ November 2024/ Aden, Yemen

Aden (ILO News) - The ILO, through the UN Joint Programme ‘‘Supporting Resilient Livelihood, Food Security, and Climate Adaptation in Yemen (ERRY III)’’, has launched a two-week Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Training of Trainers (ToT) programme in Aden. Co-funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, this ToT seeks to expand Yemen’s pool of qualified SIYB trainers, strengthening economic resilience and enhancing employment opportunities.

A total of 50 participants, representing eight organizations and including 46 per cent women from different governorates in both the south and north of the country, have begun the two weeks intensive, in-person training programme. SIYB is one of the largest global business management training programmes, equipping small-scale entrepreneurs with essential tools to establish and grow their businesses. By doing so, it not only fosters economic empowerment but also drives employment opportunities for women and men. The SIYB programme includes four training packages, each designed to address a specific stage of business development, ensuring entrepreneurs receive well-rounded support tailored to their needs at every phase of their journey.

© ILO/ Mohamed Honenah . November 2024/ Aden, Yemen

© ILO/ Mohamed Honenah . November 2024/ Aden, Yemen

In the opening ceremony, Ali Dehaq, ILO National Programme Coordinator, emphasised the crucial role of the SIYB in strengthening the capacity of Micro and Small Enterprises (SMEs) and instilling an entrepreneurial mindset among aspiring youth.

“The impact of this training is expected to be substantial,” Dehaq noted. “These trainers will not only serve ERRY's target beneficiaries but will, as we have seen over the last nine years, extend their reach to communities across Yemen. This is a commendable achievement that brings benefits nationwide.”

The training of trainers is being conducted by Master Trainers from Yemen who have been trained as part of the sustainability strategy for the SIYB programme. Internationally Licensed Master Trainer Developer, Sibongile Sibanda, who is responsible for the overall supervision, guidance, and quality assurance of the ToT, commended this programme as a significant milestone in expanding the pool of trainers in Yemen. “This is a great opportunity for the four Yemeni Master Trainer Candidates to transfer their knowledge and skills, fulfilling their certification requirements while expanding the SIYB trainer network. Those who successfully complete the training will become valuable assets, supporting a wide range of organizations, SMEs, and young entrepreneurs across Yemen.”

With a qualified network of certified trainers, the SIYB programme is a cornerstone in building Yemen’s economic resilience, empowering small business growth, and fostering sustainable livelihoods amid the country’s ongoing challenges. The programme not only equips SMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive, but it also plays a vital role in cultivating an entrepreneurial culture within Yemeni communities.

The eight organizations the participants represented are: SMEPS - the Small and Micro Enterprise Promotion Service, Riyadah – Alamal foundation subsidiary from Al-Amal Microfinance Bank (AMB), YEFE – Yemen education for employment (NGO), YLDF - Youth Leadership Development Foundation (NGO), FYCCI - Federation of Yemen Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Islamic relief (INGO), Nahdah maker (NGO), Selah foundation (NGO).