Financial inclusion is key for the economic independence of Rwandan women

Rwanda is growing its access to financial services, and now has some of the highest levels of financial inclusion in east Africa. Economic independence, however, is a deeply gendered issue. According to World Bank data, less than 35% of women in Rwanda have access to a bank account. This hinders their ability to establish and grow businesses that will benefit the entire nation.

Skilling for Change, a project run by the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, Accenture, and Care International, is combating this by providing women with mentoring, training and access to capital. Work is also being done with the Kenya Commercial Bank to change the perceptions that female customers are risky or ill-equipped.

Read the full article on The Guardian to learn more about the positive changes brought about by these initiatives.