KATHMANDU, April 19: A delegation of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nepal (FWEAN), led by FWEAN President Shova Gyawali, met with President Ram Chandra Paudel, to discuss the promotion and development of women's entrepreneurship in the country.
FWEAN has been actively supporting women's economic and social empowerment for over two decades. With district associations established in 67 out of 77 districts, FWEAN has attracted more than 5,400 women entrepreneurs to its network.
During the meeting, FWEAN President Gyawali apprised President Paudel about the recent International Women’s Trade Expo Nepal, held from March 29th to April 2nd, 2024. The expo saw participation from women entrepreneurs nationwide, along with international delegates. Various workshops, discussions, and embassy representatives enriched the event, inaugurated by the Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
President Paudel meets FWEAN team
FWEAN President Gyawali emphasized the importance of raising women's living standards for the overall economic development of the country. She called for the inclusion of programs and budgets focused on enhancing women's economic status through entrepreneurship in the upcoming fiscal year's budget.
Key proposals presented to President Paudel included active participation of women in professional activities, subsidized financial access and market management support, protection and development of indigenous entrepreneurship, subsidized loan programs for women-led businesses, financial literacy programs for women, loans for women enterprises, support for participation in trade fairs and alignment with international export standards.
In response, President Paudel expressed his happiness in meeting women entrepreneurs from various sectors. He acknowledged the potential of promoting local production to create jobs and reduce reliance on foreign employment. He assured FWEAN of his commitment to communicate their concerns and proposals to relevant agencies for policy and budget consideration.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision for empowering women through entrepreneurship, fostering economic growth, and achieving national development goals.