• Tue. Nov 5th, 2024

Access Bank Expands Women Empowerment With ‘W Initiative’ In Zambia, Botswana

Access Bank Plc, one of Africa’s top financial institutions, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women across Southern Africa by relaunching its flagship ‘W’ Initiative in Zambia and Botswana. The initiative, which focuses on providing financial services and mentorship programs tailored to women, is part of the bank’s broader strategy to drive financial inclusion and foster socio-economic development in the region.

L-R: Helen Lunda, Executive Director, Public Sector and Corporate Banking, Access Bank Zambia; Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc; Vice President of Zambia, W.K. Mutala Nalumango; Lishala Situmbeko, Country Managing Director, Access Bank Zambia, and Abiodun Olubitan, Group Head, Women Banking, Access Bank Plc during the visit of Access Bank to the Vice President in Lusaka, Zambia recently

The revamped ‘W’ Initiative offers a variety of services, including savings and investment products, business loans, and mentorship opportunities. It also promotes financial literacy and professional growth, providing women with the tools needed to succeed in both personal and business endeavors. During the launch event in Zambia, Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, underscored the significance of empowering women to boost economic growth in Africa.

“Empowering women is a cornerstone of Access Bank’s mission to drive economic growth across Africa. Through the ‘W’ Initiative, we aim to provide tailored financial solutions while also fostering environments that encourage women to thrive in all areas of life—whether as business owners, professionals, or leaders in their communities,” Okoli stated.

In Zambia, Okoli met with Vice President Mrs. W.K. Mutale Nalumango to discuss strategies for creating more opportunities for women in the country. Access Bank Zambia also pledged a donation of K500,000 to support nutritional programs in the Vice President’s office, further emphasizing the bank’s dedication to community development.

Vice President Nalumango praised the initiative, highlighting the critical role women play in national development. “It is crucial for women to recognize their value and be vocal about their achievements,” she said, commending Access Bank for its efforts in championing women’s empowerment.

In Botswana, the relaunch of the ‘W’ Initiative was met with enthusiasm, setting a new standard for women’s financial empowerment. Sheperd Aisam, Managing Director of Access Bank Botswana, described the initiative as a transformative platform, providing tailored financial solutions such as vacation, health, and educational loans, along with high-interest savings accounts aimed at long-term wealth building.

“We are proud to launch the ‘W’ Initiative in Botswana, which is designed not only to provide financial products but also to equip women with the tools, resources, and networks they need to achieve personal and professional success,” said Aisam.

Access Bank has consistently demonstrated its dedication to gender equality, with over N338.6 billion in financing directed toward 3.6 million women over the past 17 years. The bank’s ‘W’ Health Loan is one of its flagship offerings, designed to provide discounted financing for women’s health needs, including fertility procedures and natal support. The initiative has already positively impacted 160 families, resulting in the birth of 104 babies through its discounted health services.

With the ‘W’ Initiative active in 12 countries, Access Bank continues to solidify its role as a leader in women’s empowerment across Africa, offering financial opportunities that propel women towards success.

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor is a seasoned journalist and the CEO/Founder Belch Digital Communications, publishers of Hybrid News Nigeria.

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