Equal Access to Finance
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia (27-03-2026) — Experts at the Women’s Economic Empowerment and Wealth Creation Conference in Lusaka said equal access to finance is critical to unlocking women’s economic potential, as limited access to credit, weak market linkages, and restrictive business environments continue to hinder women’s full participation in Zambia’s economy.
Speaking at the Access Bank-sponsored Non-Governmental Organisations Gender Coordinating Council (NGOCC) conference held at Urban Hotel in Lusaka, Andrea Habweza, Gender Division Director under the Office of the President, said the government recognizes the persistent challenges affecting women and has taken deliberate steps to create an enabling environment for their economic participation.
“Women play a critical role in driving small and medium enterprises, yet many remain underserved due to limited access to affordable credit, markets, and digital platforms,” Mr. Habweza said.
He highlighted initiatives such as the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme and the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission as key interventions aimed at providing financial support and growth opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
Mr. Habweza said empowering women economically is not only a matter of fairness but a strategic necessity for national development, as it contributes to inclusive growth and poverty reduction.
Representing Board Chairperson Annie Sampa, Ms. Kaunda said many women still face challenges in accessing affordable capital, which limits their ability to start and grow businesses.
She said the bank has introduced targeted financial solutions, including reduced interest rate loans for women-led businesses, alongside mentorship, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship training programmes.
Ms. Kaunda said empowering women financially has a multiplier effect, improving livelihoods, supporting families, and contributing to national development.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Silungwe Mwansa, Director of Governance and Planning at the Ministry of Justice, said the government continues to strengthen legal and policy frameworks to ensure women have equal opportunities in economic activities.
Representing the Minister of Justice, she urged women to take advantage of available opportunities and build strong networks that can help transform their business ideas into sustainable ventures.
She said partnerships between government, private sector, and civil society are critical in creating inclusive economic systems that support women.
Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) Vice Board Chairperson Mwala Mulenga said economic empowerment remains central to achieving gender equality.
She noted that women, particularly those in underserved communities and those living with disabilities, continue to face compounded challenges, including limited access to finance, weak market linkages, and unfavourable business environments.
She said the conference, held as part of International Women’s Month commemorations, aims to translate discussions into practical actions that enable women to take control of economic opportunities.
Young Women in Action Board Chairperson Nalishebo Siambo said young women must be supported to become active drivers of change within their communities through entrepreneurship and innovation.
She said creating platforms for dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration is critical in bridging the gap between experience and opportunity for young women.
Ms. Siambo said addressing systemic barriers affecting women will not only unlock individual potential but also accelerate national development.
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