Access Bank & IFC Highlight African Women's Role in Sustainable Development

• Access Bank, IFC encourage African women to grab their economic power
• Women who are called to drive financial inclusion and development
• Empowering women holds the key to Africa's sustainable development

Access Bank Plc. the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and other international partners have underscored the need for African women to own their economic power and take a front seat in championing financial inclusion and sustainable development.

At the Access Bank International Women's Day Conference in Lagos, Zambia Vice President Mutale Nalumango addressed other business leaders to need more forceful policies and corporate action to put an end to barriers that hinder women from becoming fully engaged in the economy.

"It's not just a case of sitting women on the table-they need to be put in the decisions," said Mutale. "Giving power to women makes economies more resilient and better societies." During the event, Access Bank rolled out its Power of 100 campaigns, a celebration of 100 incredible African women who inspire because they excel in their sector and society through outstanding contributions to their business community.

Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting women through initiatives like the W Initiative, Womenpreneurs Pitch-a-ton Africa, and Power of 100 programs that offer funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. “Financial independence is a powerful tool for women, and we’re committed to creating more opportunities,” she stated.

Dahlia Khalifa, Regional Director at International Finance Corporation (IFC), applauded the continued cooperation with Access Bank to promote banking products targeting women. Khalifa indicated that IFC has been instrumental in supporting the bank in delivering significant gender-based services.

Bolaji Agbede, Acting Group CEO of Access Holdings emphasized the imperative of action-oriented strategies to drive women into leadership roles. "It's not about quotas let's break down system barriers and forge real leadership pathways," she urged.

The session ended with other financial institutions being rallied to leverage similar frameworks that encourage long-term financial independence and empowerment for women across the continent.