Advancing Women’s Economic Power in Africa Through Financial Access and Digital Technologies with Rachel Toku-Appiah

Episode 119 with Rachel Toku-Appiah, who is the Director of Program Advocacy and Communications for Africa at the Gates Foundation, and is at the forefront of advocating for gender equality across the African continent. Her extensive expertise and leadership within the foundation's advocacy efforts position her at the forefront of this critical movement.

Before joining the foundation in 2021, she spent more than two decades in key global health and development roles, most recently as director for food security and nutrition at Global Citizen. Earlier, she worked for the Graça Machel Trust, launching the organisation and later working to build up its nutrition programme across the African continent and beyond. As country director in Lesotho for the Clinton Foundation, she oversaw programmes that strengthened all aspects of the country’s health system, from human resources and infrastructure to laboratory services and supply chain management.

What We Discuss With Rachel

• How would you describe the current state of financial access for women entrepreneurs in Africa?
• What role do you see digital financial services playing in bridging the finance gap for women entrepreneurs in Africa? 
• What are the key challenges you encounter in promoting financial inclusion for women in Africa?
• How does the foundation navigate the cultural and societal barriers that limit women's access to finances in Africa?
• Are there any current positive trends or activities in Africa aimed at enhancing women's economic empowerment through improved financial access?

Did you miss my previous episode where I discuss The Incredible Story of Happy Coffee's Impact on Nigeria's Coffee Culture and Value Chain? Make sure to check it out!

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Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at Terser Adamu, and Twitter (X) @TerserAdamu

Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn at Rachel Toku-Appiah, and Twitter (X) @GatesAfrica 

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