This project was started late in 2019 and we have continued to expand!
At the end of December 2020, all 10 buildings were in place on their foundations, although several were still heavily under construction. Some of the stores opened in late December, and now, here we are in 2021 with more of the shops opening up their doors for business!
Be sure to take a look at the little schematic that shows the location, what is available, who is responsible for the shop, and when it opened.
The potential here is unlimited. We are giving our graduates an opportunity to put their skills to use, to have an opportunity to run their own business, to encourage new and additional skills. The location of these shops means Dekpor community members don't have to pay to travel to other towns for necessary materials and services. Honestly, we think this is rather brilliant!
We thank Susan and Tony Anderson who funded the vast majority of this entire initiative...ALL of the construction! There was a team of donors who helped with the interiors, furniture, inventory, and other assorted necessities. Thanks to Susan and Tony, Busch Systems, and our group of anonymous friends for setting the shops up for success!
Fall 2021
More important work has been tackled at Dekpor Central Shops!
In September, all of the necessary meters were finally available for purchase and were installed.
And, it turns out that we were fortunate that the original construction left some space between certain shops. Why? Well, we are utilizing those areas now for the shop owners who need them! Right beside the ICT shop, the large gap was filled in to be used as an ICT apprenticeship classroom and there is work being done at the mechanic area, also, to give some work space. In addition, a large workshop area has been constructed behind the carpentry shop. And there is now a retaining wall by the cafe riverside to help prevent erosion.
All of these latest improvements have been made possible by our wonderful friends, Susan and Tony Anderson.
