Africa’s women entrepreneurs are stepping into a new era of financial empowerment, thanks to groundbreaking initiatives challenging outdated stereotypes. The African Development Bank Group’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) is leading the charge, tackling a staggering $49 billion financing gap that has long held back women-led businesses. 💸
For decades, women faced hurdles like limited access to land ownership and collateral—barriers rooted in tradition and societal norms. But AFAWA is flipping the script, partnering with banks to prove that investing in women isn’t just good for equality—it’s smart economics. 🚀
Dr. Beth Dunford, the bank’s vice president overseeing gender initiatives, highlights the shift: "When women thrive, economies thrive." With more financial institutions recognizing this truth, women are scaling businesses in sectors from agriculture to tech, rewriting Africa’s economic story. 🌱💻
