By Alhaji Haruna Sani
In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, Ecobank Sierra Leone hosted a dynamic exhibition showcasing women-led businesses, reinforcing its commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs.
The event, held on Friday, March 7, at the bank’s headquarters on Lightfoot Boston Street, Freetown, brought together a diverse group of women entrepreneurs to display their products, network, and gain visibility.
The exhibition featured businesses from Ecobank’s Ellevate program, which supports women-owned enterprises, alongside individual female traders and entrepreneurs. Among the exhibitors were Lovely Sanitary Pads, Elite Attire, Alatipa Furniture Ltd., and Dabor’s Twin Fashion World, among ot.
Speaking at the event, Kate Thompson, Ecobank’s Head of Consumer Banking, emphasized the bank’s dedication to accelerating women’s economic empowerment. She noted that the exhibition was a platform for showcasing women-owned businesses, fostering growth, and strengthening their financial and entrepreneurial capabilities.
“This is about accelerating action. Women contribute significantly to their homes and society, and we at Ecobank believe in providing them with financial and engagement support to scale their businesses,” she stated.
Thompson further highlighted that the initiative was not just about giving women access to financial services but ensuring they gain the visibility needed to thrive.
“We want to handhold these women and give them the exposure they need. Seeing all these businesses owned by women reassures us that we are making an impact,” she added.
Beyond the exhibition, Ecobank also plans to engage in other activities, including visits to women in prison to provide support and mentorship, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to social impact.
Entrepreneurs who participated in the exhibition expressed gratitude for the platform provided by Ecobank.
Michelle Jaward, Brand Ambassador of Lovely Factory Sanitary Pads, praised the initiative for giving her company the chance to showcase its range of products, including diapers, wipes, and detergents.
“This is a special month for women, and it’s incredible to celebrate by presenting products that cater to both women and men. Ecobank has continuously provided women in business with quality support, and this exhibition is a testament to that,” Jaward remarked.
Memento Sia Kamara, founder of Alatipa Furniture Ltd., which specializes in furniture and interior decoration, described the event as a powerful avenue for women entrepreneurs to network, grow, and expand their businesses.
“This is about women supporting women. The exhibition has helped me make more sales and connect with potential clients, including Ecobank staff who visited my booth and showed interest in our products,” she said.
Fatima Bello of Team Sensational Hub, a business specializing in undiluted sprays from Dubai, echoed similar sentiments, calling the exhibition a remarkable networking opportunity.
“Meeting fellow women entrepreneurs and showcasing our products at such a prestigious event was an incredible experience,” she said.
Ecobank’s IWD exhibition aligns with its broader mission to champion financial inclusion and support women-led businesses across Africa. Through initiatives like Ellevate, the bank continues to provide tailored financial solutions, training, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs, ensuring they play a more significant role in economic development.
As the event concluded, one message was clear: women entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone are breaking barriers, and with institutions like Ecobank championing their growth, the future of female-led businesses in the country looks promising.
