The Executive Director of the Women of Africa Network (WOAN), Madam Gladys Nkrumah has called for stronger collaboration among financial institutions, policymakers, investors, and development partners to expand access to finance for women entrepreneurs across Ghana and the African continent.
Speaking at the opening of the 6th Annual Women in Trade and Investment Conference, held under the theme “Financial Avenues for Women Entrepreneurs,” she said the conference comes at a critical time when rapid technological advancements, evolving financial systems, and changing market dynamics are creating new opportunities but also exposing persistent challenges for women-led businesses.
According to her, many women entrepreneurs continue to face barriers including limited access to affordable credit, inadequate financial literacy, collateral requirements, and restricted access to business networks.
She noted that the conference aims to provide practical solutions by connecting women entrepreneurs with financial institutions, investors, buyers, suppliers, and service providers who can help them expand their businesses.
The Executive Director explained that the Women of Africa Network, a subsidiary of Actor Policy Network, is a non-profit organization operating within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to promote women’s participation in trade and economic empowerment across Africa.
She commended Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG) for partnering with the organization, describing the collaboration as a demonstration of the bank’s commitment to inclusive finance.
She urged financial institutions to develop gender-responsive products, including flexible loan facilities, digital banking solutions, tailored advisory services, and initiatives that increase women’s ownership of productive assets.
Participants were also encouraged to take advantage of the conference’s business exhibition and networking opportunities to establish new partnerships, secure markets, and explore financing options.
The Executive Director called on policymakers and regulators to implement reforms and incentives that would make it easier for women-led businesses to access capital, while urging investors and development partners to support innovative financing models and mentorship programmes that help women-owned enterprises grow sustainably.
She stressed that empowering women financially goes beyond individual success, saying increased investment in women entrepreneurs leads to stronger families, more resilient communities, higher productivity, and inclusive economic growth.
She concluded by thanking participants, partners, exhibitors, and the leadership of Actor Policy Network for their continued commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment across Africa.
Story by : Ama Pomaa Kyekyeku
