About the Program?
Project ASHA (Advancing Sustainable Heritage Autonomy) is a three-month national women's empowerment
program targeted at training 200,000
Nigerian women aged 18-35 across
all six geopolitical zones.
The program will commence with a pilot phase in Abuja, after which it will scale across other regions in phases. It adopts a hybrid learning model, combining 70% digital learning through an online learning management system (LMS) and 30% onsite practical training delivered through community learning hubs powered by renewable (solar) energy to ensure inclusivity in low-connectivity areas.
The program is implemented by WAWUAfrica, a Pan-African digital ecosystem built by women, for women, and supported by PreCEFI under the Aso Accord for economic and financial inclusion.
Program Objective
With the program, we aim to provide:
Free access to digital, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship training.
Opportunity to become a certified Wema Bank/SANEF agent.
Access to seed funding opportunities, business grants, and startup support of up to N2.5m from Wema Bank and other verified partners.
Entry into the WAWUAfrica online platform for continuous learning, mentorship, and business networking.
Linkage to SARA by Wema's offerings such as Access to market, loans and grants, SARA community and business growth toolkits.
Key Highlights
Target
200,000 women across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.
Pilot Phase
Launches in Abuja before scaling nationwide.
Duration
3 months (delivered in phased cohorts).
Delivery Model
70% digital via LMS, 30% on-site.
Post-Training Integration
Participants will be added into the SARA and WAWUafrica eco-system granting access to digital tools, funding, mentorship and market linkages.
Core Training Pillars
Participants receive hands-on training in:
Digital Skills
Training in digital literacy, data analysis, digital marketing, UI/UX design, and tech support to enhance employability in the digital economy.
Renewable Energy & Green Economy
Practical instruction in solar installation, waste management, and sustainable energy solutions to drive green entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship & Financial Literacy
Business modelling, bookkeeping, budgeting, responsible credit use, and digital payment systems to strengthen financial discipline and business growth.
Agency Banking & Financial Inclusion
Certification and training to enable participants to become Wema Bank/SANEF agents, extending access to financial services in their communities.
Soft Skills Development
Modules on communication, leadership, problem-solving, and project management for personal and professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this program
What is Project ASHA?
Project ASHA is a national women's empowerment initiative to train 200,000 Nigerian women in digital, renewable energy, and entrepreneurial skills to promote inclusion and economic growth.
Is this the first edition of Project ASHA?
Yes. The 2025 edition marks the debut of Project ASHA, beginning with a pilot phase in Abuja before expanding across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.
Where will the pilot program take place?
The pilot phase of Project ASHA will commence in Abuja, before expanding to other regions.
Who can participate?
Women aged 18-35 across all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
How long does the training last?
Three months, combining online learning with onsite practical sessions.
Is the program free?
Yes. Participation and training are completely free for selected beneficiaries.
Why should I join the SARA community?
Joining the SARA community gives you access to connect with a vibrant network of women across various sectors. As a member, you'll be among the first to hear about grant opportunities and programs, platform to sale and scale, vital business information, funding support, exclusive resources, and continuous guidance to help you grow and sustain your business.
How can I join the SARA community?
Visit sara.wemabank.com to sign up and become a part of the community.
How can I qualify to access the grant?
To qualify for the grant, you must successfully complete the Project ASHA training, be an active member of the SARA community, and have an active Wema Bank account.
Do I need a Wema Bank account?
Yes. An active Wema Bank account is required to access the training and post-training financial benefits, credit linkages, and business support.
What opportunities are available after training?
Participants gain access to business tools, financial services, mentorship, and potential funding opportunities through SARA