The BGFIBank Foundation has launched the Women Entrepreneurs Leadership Program (WELP), a bold initiative designed to support a new generation of women entrepreneurs across Central Africa. With a strong focus on training, mentorship, and access to finance, WELP aims to be a powerful driver of women’s economic empowerment across the CEMAC region.
In a region where fewer than 30% of formal businesses are led by women, the BGFIBank Foundation is stepping up with the launch of the Women Entrepreneurs Leadership Program (WELP). This program is aimed at equipping women entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to succeed and scale their businesses.
With a target to support 100 women entrepreneurs by 2026 across countries including Gabon, Cameroon, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Chad, WELP aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by tackling the structural challenges that hinder female entrepreneurship in Africa.
The program offers a combination of certified training modules, personalized mentoring, and direct access to financing partners and investor networks.
According to Hervé Ndoba, President of the BGFIBank Foundation:
“Women’s economic inclusion is a development imperative. Through WELP, we aim to create an ecosystem where women-led businesses can thrive and drive sustainable growth in our region.”
The initiative addresses major financing gaps: today, less than 10% of business loans in Africa go to women entrepreneurs. In Central Africa, 60% of women work in the informal economy, often with no access to financial tools, capacity building, or scalable business models.
WELP seeks to reverse this trend with a long-term impact strategy. The program expects an 80% business survival rate after three years for its beneficiaries and will focus on high-potential sectors such as agri-business, technology, financial services, and premium crafts.
The total investment in the program is estimated at XOF 1.5 billion (approx. $2.5 million) over three years, marking a significant commitment to inclusive economic growth.
The first cohort of 20 women leaders will be selected in October 2025. Through regional partnerships and strategic support, WELP will serve as a replicable model for empowering women across the continent.
By investing in women, BGFIBank is investing in the future of Central Africa. WELP is more than a program—it’s a movement to unlock the full economic potential of women and catalyze inclusive development for generations to come.
