women

Seeds & Pennies: Transforming Finance with Community at Its Core In an exciting development, Seeds & Pennies has successfully capped a funding round with a remarkable influx of $425,000 (N680 million). This achievement is not just a number; it symbolizes a vibrant wave of investor confidence in their innovative, field-driven lending model. Over the past quarter alone, this dynamic lender has reported an impressive $625,000 (N1 billion) in collections while disbursing $500,000 (N800 million) in new loans. These…

On May 8th, the vibrant city of Dakar witnessed a significant stride towards economic empowerment with the official launch of the second phase of the Project for Support and Promotion of Women's and Youth's Entrepreneurial Initiatives, known as PAVIE II. This initiative, strategically rooted in the ambitious “Sénégal 2050” national development framework, boasts a substantial budget of €163.449 million. But what does this really mean for the people of Senegal? The essence of PAVIE II lies not just in numbers but in the…

Empowering Women Farmers: A New Initiative in Somalia On May 8, 2025, a significant milestone was reached in Mogadishu. Janine Cocker, the Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Canada to Somalia, and Etienne Peterschmitt, the FAO Representative in Somalia, shook hands, symbolizing their commitment to a brighter future for women's empowerment and climate resilience in agriculture. This partnership heralds a new chapter for Somalia’s agricultural landscape, driven by the initiative aptly named “Scaling Up Gender-Inclusive…

The Vital Contribution of Ensemble Main dans la Main Niger-Russie In a commendable move of goodwill, the non-governmental organization "Ensemble Main dans la Main Niger-Russie" (Together Hand in Hand Niger-Russia) has extended a significant grant to the National Reference Center for Obstetric Fistula in Niamey. This generous gesture not only reflects compassion but also embodies a commitment to addressing pressing healthcare needs in some of the most vulnerable communities. The…

In a harrowing revelation, Ghanaian authorities have fallen short in safeguarding the human rights of countless individuals, predominantly older women, who have been unjustly accused of witchcraft. The recent report by Amnesty International highlights the grim reality that these women often endure, facing horrifying ritualistic attacks that compel them to abandon their homes, driven by an overwhelming fear for their lives. Entitled "Branded for Life," this poignant report sheds light on the dire circumstances faced by more…

Honoring the Heart of Ghana: Street Sellers on International Women's Day In a vibrant corner of the world, where the sun casts its warm, golden glow on bustling streets, an inspiring story unfolds. It’s a story of grit, determination, and the indomitable spirit of women who define resilience. Each day, they transform bustling marketplaces into an embodiment of hope and survival. Have you ever pondered on the strength hidden behind those determined smiles? Twellium Ghana, a leading beverage company, recently took a…

In many corners of the world, women pivotally contribute to the very fabric of society; yet, structural hindrances continue to impede their full participation in the business and workforce sectors. Imagine what could be achieved if resources were equitably available to all. Unfortunately, cultural norms that restrict possibilities, legal roadblocks, and a lack of access to vital resources often encumber women, denying them the chance to flourish. This reality presents challenges not only to women…

Imagine receiving the pinnacle of recognition in your field, only to find yourself pigeonholed into the very stereotypes you were trying to break free from. This has been the bittersweet reality for trailblazing actresses like Hattie McDaniel, Rita Moreno, and Miyoshi Umeki. Despite their historic wins at the Academy Awards, they found themselves often cast in reductive roles such as maids or the docile housewife. It's a poignant reminder of how Hollywood has frequently confined…

Micro-Feminism at Work: A Conversation with Female Leaders In today's evolving workplace, the subtle yet powerful waves of micro-feminism are making notable impressions. You may ask, what exactly is micro-feminism and why is it vital? This dynamic concept involves small, impactful gestures by individuals to support gender equality and empower women within professional settings. Recently, several female founders and executives shared their insights into this transformative movement, highlighting its significance and…

The Rise of African Women in Leadership There’s a palpable shift occurring in Africa that coincides beautifully with International Women's Day (IWD) celebrations. This wave of change sees more African women stepping up to leadership roles, echoing the IWD’s message of gender equality and empowering women in decision-making positions. In 2025, the IWD campaign theme, "Accelerate Action,” rings especially true for this movement. The theme underlines the necessity of hastening gender equality, particularly in…