Across Africa, a transformative economic opportunity is hiding in plain sight and it’s worth billions. This isn’t aid, charity, or handouts. It’s inclusive procurement. When women-led businesses are funded, trained, and given a fair shot at government contracts, the economic returns are undeniable and massive.
What does fair development really look like?
At the recent 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) held in Seville, Spain, global leaders gathered to ask one crucial question: What does fair development really look like?
In a powerful session hosted by GWL Voices, AFIC’s Executive Director, Gilbert Sendugwa, stood as one of only four male voices in a room filled with women leaders. He made a compelling case that inclusive procurement isn’t just good policy; it’s smart economics.
The numbers tell the Story
The impact of investing in women-led businesses is clear:
➡️ A $3 million investment in AFIC’s regional program will lead to $27 million in government contracts awarded to women-led enterprises, all within just three years across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Rwanda.
This is more than empowerment. This is policy in action.
Building systems that deliver real results
If Africa is serious about sustainable and inclusive development, the solution is clear:
Fund women-led businesses.
Build procurement systems that include them.
Doing so is not just a moral imperative but an economic one—unlocking the potential for growth and development across the continent.
Stories of Change
Meet the women who are rewriting economic futures through access to public procurement and turning opportunity into impact:
[Read their stories →]
Understanding the Barriers and Solutions
AFIC’s groundbreaking research dives deep into the barriers women entrepreneurs face in public procurement and the solutions that can unlock a fairer playing field:
[Explore our study →]
Join us in claiming this opportunity
Inclusive procurement is the billion-dollar opportunity Africa can no longer afford to ignore. By supporting women-led businesses, we are investing not only in fairness but in Africa’s future prosperity. Reach out via [email protected].
