By Mulengera Reporters
More than 800 women entrepreneurs, financial institutions, business development partners and private-sector players gathered at National Teachers College (NTC) Kabale for a regional business forum aimed at expanding opportunities for women-owned enterprises in the Kigezi sub-region.
The forum, being held on Thursday, brought together key government officials, financial service providers and business support organisations to explore ways of helping women entrepreneurs access finance, strengthen their businesses and unlock new growth opportunities under the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project.
The gathering was being hosted by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development in partnership with the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), through the GROW Project.
Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, attended as Chief Guest, accompanied by Hon. Jacqueline Mbabazi, Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Elderly Affairs.
Welcoming participants, Dr. Ruth Aisha Biyinzika, GROW Project Coordinator at PSFU, commended the women entrepreneurs for their strong turnout, describing the forum as an opportunity to engage with business owners and other stakeholders on pathways to enterprise growth.
The forum provides a platform for women entrepreneurs to share their business experiences, learn from one another and explore opportunities available through the GROW Project, particularly in financial inclusion, enterprise support and business development services.
Beyond discussions, the event featured an exhibition of products and services from 30 women-led businesses. The exhibition was intended to increase the visibility of women-owned enterprises, encourage networking and establish business linkages that could open up new markets and partnerships.
The participation of financial institutions and business development partners also creates an opportunity for entrepreneurs to engage with organisations that can support their financing needs and business expansion plans.
The Kigezi engagement forms part of the GROW Project’s broader effort to improve access to finance and business support for women entrepreneurs, enabling them to grow their enterprises and contribute to economic activity in their communities.
The project is implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development in partnership with PSFU, with support from the World Bank. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
