Leaders and policymakers from 23 African countries convened in Lesotho today for a landmark event aimed at strengthening women-owned micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the continent.
Organised and co-hosted by the Central Bank of Lesotho, the gathering focused on promoting dialogue around innovative financing instruments and forward-looking policy strategies designed to empower women entrepreneurs and accelerate inclusive economic growth.
Speaking during the opening session, Audrey Hove, Head of Policy Management at the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI), underscored the critical importance of effective policy management in expanding women’s economic participation. She commended Lesotho for the significant progress it has made in improving women’s access to formal financial services, describing the country as a model for others seeking to advance financial inclusion.
Hove further noted that Lesotho has achieved notable milestones in supporting women-led MSMEs, particularly by enhancing access to quality and inclusive financial services. She reaffirmed AFI’s core belief that through shared knowledge, collaboration and peer learning, countries can create an enabling environment in which women entrepreneurs are empowered to grow and thrive.
