Mastercard and Women Choice introduce two new programs to empower female entrepreneurs across Africa

Mastercard in partnership with Women Choice – an international organization devoted to promoting women’s individual and professional growth – is set to invest more in the development of women entrepreneurs in Africa and the Middle East with the launch of two new programmes, ImpactHer and EmpowerHer.

Previously, Women Choice initiated its pilot cohort in 2023 while Mastercard has consistently been a leading player in providing women with access to digital tools, training, mentorship and networking opportunities. With this expanded partnership, the two organizations aim to further empower women entrepreneurs in Africa and the Middle East in scaling their businesses and creating jobs.

The programs provide extensive support through training and mentorship for women entrepreneurs and assist them in creating employment opportunities for other women in their sectors.

Amnah Ajmal, who is the executive vice president for market development for EEMEA at Mastercard, spoke about the company’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and equality. She emphasised that the collaboration with Women Choice would significantly impact women in the workforce within the region. Furthermore, it aims to equip women entrepreneurs with the necessary skills, resources and tools to succeed and foster economic growth.

Nezha Alaoui, founder and CEO of Women Choice, expressed her pride in the successful outcomes of the program launched in 2023 in cooperation with Mastercard. She added her excitement about the growing partnership and focus on scaling the impact going forward.

Alaoui believes that the change and improvement in the status of women in the workplace and the support given to women-led businesses are crucial in helping the economies of the Middle East and Africa region to grow and prosper.