Women Leadership Programs in the microfinance sector

Empowering women leaders to unlock potential

Economic development must, for it to be sustainable, be inclusive. Our Women Leadership Programs have played a key role in advancing gender inclusion within the microfinance sector across the region.

In Burundi, the program was successfully implemented as part of the regional project, which concluded in September 2024. Currently, the program remains active in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, where together with our partners, we continue to support and mentor emerging women leaders in the microfinance sector.

Through targeted training, mentorship, and capacity-building efforts, the program equips women with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to lead effectively. This enables them to contribute significantly to the transformation of the microfinance sector and to the economic development of their communities.

The most recent program, titled “Women Advancing SACCOs Innovation & Leadership Initiative (WASILI),” was launched in Tanzania in March 2025 as part of the International Women’s Day celebrations within the Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOS).

This three-year program marks a significant step toward building a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient cooperative sector, where women are not only participants but are also key decision-makers, driving change and contributing to long-term economic growth and sustainability.