By Francis COFIE
In recognition of the unique role of women entrepreneurs in advancing the cause of society in Africa, an award ceremony has been held in Accra to honor Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women.
The event was organized in recognition of a select group of women who have contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of their countries in Africa.
The awardees were drawn from 54 countries among a wide- range of professional disciplines including the media, banking, entertainment, agriculture, medicine, hospitality among others.
Organized by Imperial Leo Network Ltd, the awardees were selected by scrutinizing their level of professionalism and the extent of the impact of their craft on society with a section of awardees drawn online via zoom.
As part of the event, there was a panel discussion where women entrepreneurs undertook a thorough review of issues that militates against the smooth business operation of women, citing the instance of keeping a fine balance between family and work life.
Also discussed were mental health issues that have potential effect on women in view of their unique make-up to responding to stress- related developments emanating from work intersection with matrimonial responsibilities.
In an address, the chairman and Group CEO of Imperial Leo Network Ltd, Dr. Paul Boachie-Ansah said it was amazing to see women breaking through boundaries and the barriers that militates against them to make their mark in the tough world of work.
He said despite the significant contributions of women entrepreneurs to Africa’s economic growth, they face several challenges including limited access to finance, training, training, access to network and markets among others.
“According to research, women in Sub- Saharan Africa are 20percent less likely than men to have a bank account and are 17percent less likely to have access to formal credit”, he said.
This barriers in access to finance, he said, makes it difficult for women to start and grow their businesses.
He, however said, despite these challenges, there are many opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Africa such as agriculture, technology, tourism and more which women could explore.
Dr. Boachie- Ansah said efforts which were being made by governments, organizations and public- spirited individuals to address these barriers through policy reforms, financial support, capacity- building programmes and advocacy are worthy of note.
He indicated that despite these numerous challenges and gender disparities, women in Africa have shown resilience, innovation and determination to build viable enterprises and contribute to economic growth and social development of Africa.
The Overall Award recipient was Bishop Dr.Charles Cofie Hackman, CEO of H4P Organization for his over- a – decade long standing contributions in supporting women and girls in the disability community in Africa.
Among elite women entrepreneur awardees recognized at the event were Arthimiza Mendonca, Journalist from Guinea Bissau; Grace Omaboe, TV personality, philanthropist, politician and Educationist, Ghana; Madam Doris Belinda Ankorful, CEO of Linda Dor Ent; Ruth Tembe, Founder and CEO of Africa Vision Communication Group Cameroon; Mrs Comfort Owusu, Executive Director of Association of Rural Banks, Ghana; Queen Nwokoye, Actress and Entrepreneur, Nigeria.
Others include Sonya Sadwhani, Executive Director of Melcom; Gladys Sarkodie, CEO of Anointed Ladies Shop; Madam Abena Pokua Amoah Boaitey, CEO of Interven Limited GH among other deserving awardees.
In a remark, Mrs Comfort Owusu, an awardee urged emerging young ladies to manage their time profitably by judiciously juggling between matrimonial and professional life in spite of the challenges.
She encouraged women to invest in their craft and chosen careers while applying themselves diligently to their careers adding that they should minimize the amount of time spent on social media.
