This article explores the critical role of financial institutions in closing the gender financing gap in Africa, focusing on the partnership between Absa Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). It highlights the transformative impact of integrated financial and non-financial support for women entrepreneurs, illustrated by the success story of South African business leader Busisiwe Mdletshe. With reference to recent gender parity data and large-scale investment initiatives, the article emphasizes the importance of combining capital access with human development to achieve inclusive economic growth. The article outlines landmark financing packages aimed at supporting women-led SMEs and advocates for continued collaboration between development finance institutions and private sector banks to scale impact across the continent.
Tag: financial literacy Africa
Digital empowerment takes root in Zimbabwe with EFTCorp and EmpowerBank Limited
Digital financial inclusion is gaining momentum in Zimbabwe through a strategic partnership between EFTCorp and EmpowerBank Limited, a youth-focused microfinance institution. Together, they are building a robust digital ecosystem that supports underserved communities—particularly young people and women—by providing accessible banking infrastructure, youth microloans, financial literacy programs, and entrepreneurship support. EmpowerBank’s grassroots development initiatives are complemented by EFTCorp’s cutting-edge digital payment technologies, enabling mobile-first, scalable, and secure financial services. This public-private collaboration exemplifies how digital transformation can foster economic empowerment and sustainable development from the ground up.