Women entrepreneurs in the DRC: Committed to empowerment and corporate social responsibility
The Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Congo (A.FE.E.CO), in partnership with UN Women, organized a CSR/WEPs Forum and Expo dedicated to women’s empowerment and corporate social responsibility. This event, which was held from August 10 to 11 at the Rotana Hotel, brought together many women entrepreneurs and experts in the field.
During the first day of the Forum, several panels took place, bringing together leaders of companies such as Vlisco RDC, Glencore or BA consulting. These interventions highlighted, among other things, the importance of having gender-friendly corporate leadership, treating all men and women fairly, respecting human rights and promoting gender equality. education and professional development of women.
AFEECO, as the organizer of the event, highlighted the success of the trainings on the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). These trainings aim to promote gender equality, ensure worker health and safety, empower women in business development, supply chain and marketing, and measure and report on progress made on equality.
UN Women also commended the organization of this event, stressing the importance of supporting the empowerment of women in the field of entrepreneurship. Small and medium-sized enterprises play a vital role in the economy, providing employment and economic development opportunities, especially for women and young people.
The Congolese government, represented by the Minister of Gender, Ms. Mireille Masangu, reaffirmed its support for women entrepreneurs through the Support Project for the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (PADMPME). This project aims to stimulate the growth of MSMEs and create more employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for women and young people.
On the sidelines of the Forum, the Minister of Communication and Media also named the first directory of women entrepreneurs in Kinshasa, highlighting their contribution to the Congolese economy.
This initiative by AFEECO and UN Women demonstrates the commitment of women entrepreneurs in the DRC to promote gender equality, women’s empowerment and corporate social responsibility. Through events such as the RSE/WEPs Forum and Expo, these inspiring women are helping to create an enabling environment for women’s entrepreneurship and strengthen the Congolese economy