The AUG Foundation has expanded its women-focused economic empowerment efforts through a collaborative programme with Kungiyar Tallafin Mata Masu Dubara (MMD), held on Saturday in Gusau, Zamfara State.
The initiative, championed by the Foundation’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau (Dan Isan Gusau / Magayakin Tsafe), provided financial support to women entrepreneurs and small-scale traders to help grow their businesses and improve household livelihoods. The event drew women leaders, cooperatives, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders from across Zamfara Central.
Organisers noted that the empowerment scheme is part of a broader strategy that will be replicated across all 14 Local Government Areas and the Emirate Councils of Zamfara State in the coming months.
**Dan Isan Gusau Honoured With Humanitarian Award**
During the programme, the Mata Masu Dubara group presented a Humanitarian Award to Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau in recognition of his sustained contributions to women and youth empowerment. The citation praised his “continuous display of compassion, commitment, and service to the less privileged,” describing him as a strong supporter of women-led enterprises and vulnerable families.
**Beneficiaries Laud Support**
Beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation for the assistance, describing it as timely and impactful amid current economic challenges.
One participant said the support would “help many of us rebuild and strengthen our businesses,” while another commended the Foundation’s CEO for “showing that women matter and that our economic contribution is valued.”
**MMD Leadership Commends Collaboration**
Leader of Mata Masu Dubara, Hajiya Suwaiba, lauded the partnership and described the award as well-deserved.
“This recognition reflects his compassion and consistent support to women. His contributions continue to uplift our communities,” she said.
**AUG Foundation Reiterates Commitment**
AUG Foundation Coordinator, Abdul Bala Gusau, emphasised that the empowerment drive is part of a continuous intervention framework.
“This is not an isolated programme. The Founder has directed that the initiative be extended to all 14 LGAs of Zamfara State. We remain committed to providing sustainable support that strengthens communities,” he stated.
**Sustained Humanitarian Impact**
For over three years, the AUG Foundation has implemented initiatives in education, healthcare, food assistance, economic empowerment, community development, and emergency relief. The organisation says it will continue advancing its mission of promoting dignity, inclusion, and upliftment for vulnerable groups across Zamfara State and beyond.
