Economic Development
The Need
Economic Development is needed for the people of the Ave-Afiadenyigba to provide for the needs of their families and eventually to contribute to the support of the Archbishop Fulton Sheen Catholic Academies. Economic Development is also needed if students educated in the academies are to find suitable employment in the local community upon graduation.
The Plan
Approximately six years ago, a generous gift enabled the women of the Ave-Afiadenyigba Catholic community to start a Credit Union. This Credit Union has a successful track record of providing micro-loans to the local community. Economic Development efforts will build upon the success of the Credit Union and the natural agricultural advantages of the region.
Mangos, pineapple, palm, and papaya are all well suited to the climate of the area and there is a market for each in the local and regional economy. It is planned that plants will be made available to local residents through the Credit Union. A trained agronomist will support the families through the initial planting, cultivating and harvesting of the crops.
Proceeds from the sale of the fruit will sustain the families and eventually enable families in the Ave-Afiadenyigba community to contribute to the support of the academies.