Absa Bank hosts NBFI learning event to drive inclusive job creation

Mr. Gottfried Odamtten-Sowah leads Entrepreneurship at the Mastercard Foundation. He highlighted the importance of partnerships. He stated, “Through this partnership, we have unlocked affordable financing to over 7,900 businesses.”

More than 6,900 businesses also received training and mentorship. This support has improved their business practices and growth.

Joyce is an entrepreneur from Somanya. She shared her success story about the program's impact on her business. She said, “Before I received support, my business was struggling and I lost some employees.”

With funding from the Mastercard Foundation, a five-year project has been launched. It has provided over US$100 million in SME lending solutions and support. More than 5,000 enterprises have benefited, focusing on women-led businesses and rural entrepreneurs.

The event included a panel discussion with loan beneficiaries. There were data-led presentations as well as strategic discussions on sustainability and future directions.