WIMAFRICA Launches Forum to Empower African Women Economically

The Women in Management Africa (WIMAFRICA) is organizing its inaugural African edition of the Women in Management global economic forum in Lagos on November 10-11, 2026. The conference, themed ‘The Power Shift: Women Driving Africa’s Global Economic Influence,’ aims to empower women by advocating for greater access to finance, markets, and economic decision-making.

Dr Ngozi Oyewole, Chairperson of WIMAFRICA and Vice Chairman of the Industrial Training Fund, emphasized the need for women to move beyond mere participation in economic activities to influential roles in business decisions. She pointed out that while African women significantly contribute to various sectors, they face challenges such as limited access to capital and cultural restrictions.

The conference will explore opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area, focusing on local manufacturing and supply chain development. Oyewole urged financial institutions to create tailored financing products for women-owned businesses and called for improved access to procurement opportunities for these enterprises.