ImpactHER named Best Women SME Support Organization in Africa at the African Union Forum

ImpactHER, an impact-driven non-governmental organization that has impacted over 45,000 female SMEs across 53 African countries was awarded “Best Women SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) Support Organization in Africa” at the just concluded African Union Forum in Egypt. ​

The event themed “Economic Empowerment of SMEs, Women and Youth Entrepreneurs to Realize Africa’s Industrialization in the Context of the Integrated Market” took place at the Grand Nile Hotel, in Cairo.

The awards ceremony recognized individuals, institutions, organizations, Government Agencies and SMEs that have distinguished, by the quality and usefulness of their operational models, design, implementation and overall impact their policies on the development of SMEs in Africa.
Known for creating interventions focused on increasing financial inclusion of female entrepreneurs in Africa, ImpactHER was given the award for the Best Women SME Support organization in Africa in recognition of its impact-driven initiatives that have helped women business owners achieve their economic potential across Africa.



Speaking on the award, the founder of ImpactHER, Efe Ukala, said “it’s been a privilege to serve African women and be challenged to design innovative solutions. It’s been an exciting journey so far and I look forward to being of continuous service to our beloved continent, Africa. It’s also been an incredible opportunity to work with a dynamic and talented team, from ImpactHER’s Director, Kenechi Ezekika; country representatives, Onie Bayode and Maame Mintah; and members of our Wise Council – H.E, Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, and Patricia Obozuwa, to improve the economic narrative of women business owners in Africa. We thank the African Union and All African Association for Small and Medium Enterprises for this recognition.
Other dignitaries honored at the awards ceremony include Dr Benedict Oramah, President, Afreximbank. Dr.Amany Asfour who was inducted into the Africa SME Hall of Fame, Dr. Tapiwa Uchizi Nyasulu and H.E. Ambassador (Prof) Chandan Kheswar Jankee were also given Appreciation Awards for their individual  roles in supporting Women SMEs.

Source: Vanguard