NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

CGAP convenes FinEquity, a global community of practice dedicated to empowering women through financial inclusion. FinEquity Africa was created as a regional branch to promote equitable access to and use of financial services across Africa by accelerating knowledge generation, fostering best practices and encouraging sector collaboration in the region. FinEquity Africa is powered by regional knowledge partners Graça Machel Trust and the Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Network.  The regional hub is rapidly growing and reaches over 800 people.

In Africa, the intersection of social norms, gender dynamics, and climate change presents a complex landscape that significantly impacts financial inclusion for women. Social norms dictate the roles and responsibilities of women within their communities and households, often limiting their access to economic opportunities. Simultaneously, climate change amplifies existing vulnerabilities, disproportionately affecting women who are often responsible for securing food, water, and energy resources in their families. Recognizing these intersections is crucial for devising strategies that empower women economically, foster climate resilience, and challenge traditional gender norms.