MTN Uganda and its partners have unveiled 118 exceptional women entrepreneurs who have been selected as service providers under the Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program — a program designed to grow the female MTN supplier base, build the capacity of women businesses through skills development as well as build sustainable business ecosystems through mentorship and coaching programs.
Through a rigorous selection process following its expression of interest call, MTN identified and partnered with talented women entrepreneurs from diverse sectors including I.T., network, commercial, professional, and facility-related services.
According to MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, the selected women demonstrated exceptional skills, passion, and determination — showcasing the incredible potential and versatility of female-led businesses in our country.
“We are thrilled to unveil these remarkable women entrepreneurs who have not only met but exceeded our expectations,” said Mulinge at a press briefing. “By choosing these women entrepreneurs as service providers to MTN Uganda, we are not just investing in their businesses; we are investing in the future of Uganda.”
Mulinge said they believe that by empowering women economically, they can create a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and ultimately, our nation’s prosperity.”
As part of MTN Uganda’s commitment to gender diversity and inclusion, the company has significantly increased the representation of women suppliers.
“By enlisting these exceptional 118 women entrepreneurs as part of the MTN supplier base, I am pleased to note that we have moved the needle from 7% women suppliers in 2023 to 15% in 2024,” added Mulinge.
The unveiling event which was held at MTN Uganda headquarters in Kampala, was presided over by renowned entrepreneur and founder of the Gudie Farm, Prof. Gudula Naiga Basaza, who also doubles as the Chairperson of the Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Limited (UWEAL) advised the women entrepreneurs to be focused, resilient, tenacious, and compliant, for their businesses to thrive.
MTN Uganda extended its gratitude to all partners and mentors who contributed to the success of the AWE program, including DFCU Bank (Women in Business), PSFU, NSSF Hi Innovators, ATC, UN Women, The Innovation Village, and MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited.
MTN is committed to supporting women-owned businesses across Uganda, backed by the strong belief that Together, we’re unstoppable.