Ecobank Zimbabwe Limited through Ellevate, its women-focused programme, announces the upcoming Open Market Day and Exhibition which will be held in the vibrant city of Bulawayo on 05 April 2024, starting at 0900hrs in the City Hall.
This event, which is the 2nd edition (and comes after successfully hosting the first one in October 2023) is being hosted in collaboration with the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) , a globally recognized trade body that supports the advancement of women in business and graced by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, honourable Monica Mutsvangwa who has been an unwavering advocate for women's economic empowerment in Zimbabwe.
The Open Market Day and Exhibition is a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within Zimbabwean women and provides a platform for these women led or women owned businesses to display their diverse array of products to the public. This initiative is in line with Ecobank's commitment to Improving women’s agency, namely their ability to define goals and act on them, a crucial factor for advancing gender equality, equity and the economic empowerment, the cornerstone of the Ellevate programme, “Ellevate by Ecobank”.
Ellevate by Ecobank is designed to address the unique challenges faced by women owned and women-led businesses, providing them with accessible banking services and the financial support necessary to grow and sustain their enterprises.
“Ecobank recognises the strategic importance of women on the continent and the need to continually support them to reach their full potential. In developing Ellevate, we made time to understand the needs of women, what they really require from their bankers, and came up with practical solutions that will help bridge the identified gaps”, Moses Kurenjekwa, Ecobank Zimbabwe Limited Managing Director and SADC Cluster Head has stated.
The main activities of the event include:
- On-site account opening with Ecobank for immediate banking solutions;
- Financial literacy classes aimed at equipping women entrepreneurs with the knowledge to navigate their financial journey successfully. Opportunities for entrepreneurs to explore financing options and advice on business growth;
- Networking, where participants can connect with each other and also with potential customers or business partners.
The event promises to be an enlightening and transformative experience for all attendees, providing women entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge to elevate their businesses to new heights.
“The event cannot come at a much better time than this, especially after celebrating International Women’s month, highlighting the importance of continuing the momentum of supporting women’s initiatives beyond just one month of celebration,” honorable Monica Mutsvangwa has stated.
We invite the community to join us in supporting these trailblazing women who are not just building businesses but are also contributing to the economic fabric of Zimbabwe.
For more information about Ecobank and the 'Ellevate by Ecobank' programme, visit our website at www.ecobank.com/zw/commercial-banking/ellevate.
