200+ women entrepreneurs graduate from the Women Creating Wealth Programme in 6 African countries
From March to May 2024, we proudly celebrated the graduation of more than 200 women entrepreneurs from the Women Creating Wealth (WCW) programme. This remarkable achievement was made possible by the support of our donor partners: the African Development Bank Group's AFAWA initiative, the Visa Foundation and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)- South Africa. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the host partners in the countries -- New Faces New Voices in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, as well as the Federation of Associations of Women in Business in Zambia and COMESA Confederation of Women in Business (COMFWB) in Malawi--for their invaluable contributions to these successes.
Launch of the Women Creating Wealth Agricultural Value Chains Programme
In April 2024, The Trust's Women Creating Wealth programme introduced the Agricultural Value Chains initiative in partnership with the University of Johannesburg's Centre for Competition, Regulation, and Economic Development (CCRED), with support from the European Union. This initiative is designed to foster growth for women-owned businesses in the agricultural sector.
We are seeking motivated women entrepreneurs in the citrus, poultry, and winery value chains in South Africa. Read more about the programme launch here: Programme Launch Article.
For application details, visit the application Link.
Strategic Partnerships Boost Female Entrepreneurs in Uganda and Tanzania
On May 30, 2024, the Graça Machel Trust's Women Creating Wealth (WCW) programme, in partnership with the Stanbic Bank Biashara Incubator, hosted a Women, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship Masterclass in Tanzania. This event, a testament to the impactful progress of the WCW programme, aimed to advance women's economic and social development, a cause we can all be proud of. Read more
On May 24, 2024, Stanbic Bank Uganda and Old Mutual Uganda attended the WCW graduation ceremony in Uganda, strengthening support and partnerships to further entrepreneurship and economic growth in Uganda.
WCW and Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce collaborate to support entrepreneurs
On July 24, 2024, the Women Creating Wealth (WCW) Programme began its roadshow in Tanzania, with Zanzibar as the first stop, hosted by the Tanzania Women's Chamber of Commerce (TWCC) Zanzibar Chapter. This initiative aims to introduce the WCW programme to local women entrepreneurs and TWCC members. The event included an information session led by Ms Tatu Suleiman, chairperson of TWCC Zanzibar, who stressed the importance of initiatives that help women entrepreneurs enhance their skills. Ms. Anabahati Mlay, WCW Country Manager for Tanzania, added, "We believe in building on existing foundations by partnering with organizations like TWCC, which have already laid the groundwork. Together, we can support women striving for economic growth. We aim to be part of a positive-impact ecosystem for African women."
Stories of growth
In 2018, the Trust funded a seed multiplication program, which is now visibly transforming the lives of the women involved. The Trust's Director of Programmes, Ms. Shiphra Chisha, and WCW Senior Entrepreneurship Manager, Ms. Korkor Cudjoe, recently visited some of the projects in Zambia to witness the progress made. Kalomo Grain is one of the visited businesses, and it exemplifies an inclusive business model, showing significant growth and impact. There is optimism that the remaining 20% needed for greater success will be achieved. Ms Cudjoe said: "This initiative could create 1,000 jobs for the WCW-Intergenerational project in Zambia."
How WCW's support fuels success for Malawian entrepreneurs
In Malawi, Evelyn Kamanga, WCW's Country Lead, and her team visited entrepreneurs across the country. Their first stop was Annie Chifulemba Msika, owner of Joan Footwear and a participant in the WCW Intergenerational programme. Through the programme's Personal Mastery module, Annie has gained confidence and is now a sought-after speaker at various events. She also learned the importance of implementing effective business systems and building a strong team, which allows her business to operate smoothly, even when she is not present.
Offering ongoing support to our entrepreneurs
Financial Readiness roundtable
The Financial Readiness roundtable, which took place virtually on 10th July 2024, a testament to the effectiveness of our WCW programme, was hosted in partnership with the Afrishela Fund, with support from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). This event brought together women entrepreneurs eager to secure funding and grow their businesses. It explored various financial products and funding options, offering key insights into what investors seek. Participants gained valuable knowledge on aligning funding opportunities with their business goals and meeting funders' requirements, equipping them to access essential capital for sustainable business growth.
African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) training
The AfCFTA is a pivotal initiative to boost intra-African trade and economic integration. Recognising its potential, the Trust, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the Trade Law Centre NPC (TRALAC) hosted a two-day workshop in Johannesburg on 18 and 19 July 2024. The workshop aimed to prepare South African women entrepreneurs for the opportunities and challenges of AfCFTA. WCW participants gained crucial insights into the agreement, better access to trade resources, and a deeper understanding of expanding their businesses through intra-regional trade. This training was a significant step toward empowering women entrepreneurs to maximise the benefits of AfCFTA.
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Digital Literacy and Public Sector procurement training
Digital literacy and access to public sector procurement are vital for the success of women-owned small and medium enterprises. However, many face challenges in these areas. To address this, on 8th August 2024, WCW programme hosted a training session focused on enhancing digital skills and navigating public procurement processes. Participants learned to leverage digital tools for business growth, expand their market reach through e-commerce, and effectively engage in public sector procurement. The session, also provided extensive networking opportunities, fostering a sense of community and support, helping entrepreneurs build connections and strengthen their potential for economic impact.
A Glimpse into South Africa's entrepreneurs' day
WCW showcase in Johannesburg on 14 November 2023 celebrated the achievements of women entrepreneurs in South Africa. The event included panel discussions on self-care, collaboration, the importance and advantages of compliance, understanding the entrepreneurship ecosystem and the importance of support and allies in the business journey. Selected entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their businesses the to the highly experienced WCW coaches, who gave them valuable feedback and insights. Mpho Mohasana won a voucher for business support services to the value of R10 000 to help her navigate her journey with relative ease. Find out more about here.
