Minister of Social and Family Development Aishath Shiham has announced the disbursement of a USD6.5 million women's loan scheme and the upcoming introduction of a special loan for small businesses. She made the announcement while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Hiyala Weekend Market.
The Hiyala Weekend Market is part of the government's 14-week roadmap. It is coordinated by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade along with the Business Centre Corporation (BCC) and aims to create a dedicated marketplace in Hulhumale' for promoting and selling women's products. The market is scheduled to run every weekend and provides a platform for local women entrepreneurs to showcase and sell food and various locally crafted products.
Minister Aishath inaugurated the weekend market, emphasising its role in fostering additional business opportunities for women entrepreneurs. She highlighted the significance of the market as a platform for women to collaborate towards shared goals.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Minister Aishath noted that the market serves as another avenue for showcasing women's products to the public. She confirmed the fulfillment of two pledges made by President Dr. Muizzu under his administration, namely the disbursement of the USD6.5 million women's loan and the introduction of a special loan tailored for small businesses.
The Hiyala Weekend Market, hosted at the Container Park in Hulhumale' Phase I, is scheduled to take place every Friday and Saturday from 1600 to 1100hrs.