In an era of rapid change and increasing challenges, women’s networks have become influential social and economic transformation drivers. The Graça Machel Trust (GMT) recognises the strength of women’s collective action. It supports networks across 20 African countries, enabling women entrepreneurs to succeed from grassroots to international levels.
GMT supports diverse networks, each addressing specific areas. New Faces New Voices (NFNV) promotes women’s financial inclusion. Women in Clean Energy and Climate Action ensures women’s active participation in Africa’s clean energy transition. The African Women in Agribusiness Network supports women in agriculture and agro-processing, while the Network for African Businesswomen (NABW) supports women across broader business sectors.
These networks have inspired remarkable entrepreneurial innovations. They help women grow their businesses, access new markets locally and internationally, and benefit from training programmes to enhance their skills. With this year’s International Women’s Day 2025 themed “FOR ALL WOMEN AND GIRLS: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” celebrating these achievements highlights women’s networks’ critical role in overcoming barriers and creating opportunities for African women and girls.
GMT has impacted over 200,000 women entrepreneurs, indirectly creating more than 20,000 jobs. Women from diverse backgrounds connect through summits, workshops, mentorship programmes, and digital forums. This collective effort amplifies their impact, providing better access to finance, market opportunities, and business innovations.
Innovative Solutions
In Cameroon, NFNV partnered with community stakeholders to launch a digital currency in 2023. This mobile-based payment solution enabled women entrepreneurs to conduct transactions securely, addressing cash shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Uganda, NFNV launched the FINISAVE model in 2024. This cooperative initiative used grassroots methods to enhance financial literacy and inclusion. FINISAVE trained 250,000 people–over 60% women–leading to the creation of 370 savings groups. These groups collectively deposited over 2 billion Ugandan shillings, significantly boosting women’s economic independence. Following its initial success, FINISAVE plans to expand through a mobile app to further improve financial inclusion.
In Nigeria, NFNV partnered with Kasuwa24.com in 2024, enabling women entrepreneurs to expand their businesses through improved digital market access, enhancing their visibility and sales potential.
Advocacy and Policy Change
GMT-supported networks have influenced important policy shifts through advocacy and strategic partnerships, promoting inclusive economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
In Cameroon, the Ministry of Commerce is revisiting policies to reserve at least 30% of government procurement contracts for women-led businesses. In Ghana, we recorded the adoption of the Affirmative Gender Equity Act, reinforcing its commitment to women’s economic participation. In Kenya the NFNV network introduced exclusive insurance packages tailored to support women entrepreneurs in mitigating business risks. In Uganda, the networks collaborated with the Ministry of Finance led to the establishment of the Citizen’s Financial Reference Bureau (CFRB) to provide financial arbitration and advisory services. This has result in the Money Lenders Act now capping interest rates at 2.8% per month, curbing exploitative lending practices that disproportionately affect women.
It is clear the transformative power of women networks and collaboration is undeniable. Through GMT’s pioneering efforts, women are elevating their social and economic status while driving comprehensive changes that benefit society. As more women unite to share knowledge, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities, they are collectively shaping a future that is equitable, prosperous, and resilient a future where the power of collaboration truly transforms the world.
