In a landmark effort to promote gender-inclusive financial systems in Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in collaboration with Invest Salone, hosted a high-level Financial Inclusion Workshop for Women at Mamba Point- Lagoonda on June 12, 2025.
The event brought together key government officials, financial sector experts, and stakeholders from the private sector, including Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs; Charles Vandi, Deputy Chief Director; Marian Goodie Sowonie, Director of Gender; Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie, Team Leader of Invest Salone; and Philip Bangura from the Bank of Sierra Leone.
Charles Vandi, who chaired the event, emphasized the importance of moving beyond policy into implementation. He referenced the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act of 2022 and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (2022–2026) as frameworks requiring tangible action.
“We need to move from paper policy to practical solutions that expand women’s access to finance,” Vandi urged.
The Representative from the Bank of Sierra Leone, Philip Bangura discussed regulatory measures and initiatives targeting rural women’s financial access, including automation of credit reporting, use of national identification (NIN), and data systems to prevent financial discrimination.
He said as a Financial Institution, they want all financial service users to be identified as their data-driven scorecards are bridging gender gaps in loan accessibility.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Isata Mahoi highlighted financial inclusion as a pathway to empowering women and strengthening national development. She acknowledged Invest Salone for spearheading the initiative and called for equity in access to financial resources.
“This dialogue is crucial. The GEWE Act reaffirms our national commitment to ensuring equitable access to economic opportunities for women,” Minister Mahoi stated.
She also addressed gender disparities in finance and tech sectors, calling on financial institutions to integrate women’s needs into their systems and policies.
The program featured interactive sessions with representatives from banks, fintech companies, and advocacy groups. Discussions focused on digital literacy for women, fintech innovations, mobile banking networks, and targeted fiscal policies aimed at improving women’s financial empowerment.
In closing, Charles Vandi expressed gratitude to all partners and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting gender equality through an inclusive financial system.
The GEWE Act, he said gave them a clear mandate and that it’s time they act decisively.
