More than 3,000 women-owned businesses are expected to benefit.

Experts say the coming months will be decisive, as authorities balance competing priorities against limited resources.

Residents interviewed by our reporters said they were cautiously optimistic, citing previous projects that stalled after initial launches.

Officials said the plan had been developed after months of consultation with residents, local leaders and technical experts, and that implementation would begin immediately.

According to figures shared with Inspire Media, the programme will initially cover the most affected areas before being expanded nationwide over the next two years.

“This is a step in the right direction, but we will be watching closely to make sure the promises are kept,” said a community representative who attended the briefing.

What happens next

Analysts note that similar initiatives in the past have struggled with funding delays and weak oversight, and say transparency will be key to success this time.