Africa’s economic progress requires the full strength of its women. This was the core message from Sylvester Adinam Mensah, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Exim Bank. He stressed the urgent need for more investment and support for women running businesses across the continent.
Mensah spoke at the 2026 Ghana Female CEOs Summit held on May 7. He stated that women are essential for Africa’s economic growth and its plan for lasting development. The summit’s theme, “Women Driving Sustainable Businesses for a Resilient Africa,” underscored this point. Mensah believes Africa’s future strength depends on how well it supports its women leaders.
He shared that African women are no longer just seeking a place in economic discussions. They are actively creating new business ideas and industries. Mensah pointed out that women are not merely the future of Africa. They are actively shaping its economy right now. This demonstrates their significant impact on Africa’s current economic and social progress.
Mensah highlighted Africa’s leading role in global female entrepreneurship. He stated that nearly one in every four businesses on the continent is owned or led by a woman. This high number shows the business capability, resilience, and leadership of African women. He also noted that despite this strength, women entrepreneurs face many challenges.
These challenges include unfair access to money, markets, and important business networks. Women-led businesses often receive less money and support than those run by men. This occurs even when women prove their skills and innovative ideas. Mensah clarified that the problem is not a lack of talent. It is a lack of access to the resources needed for these businesses to grow.
Ghana Exim Bank CEO emphasized that supporting women entrepreneurs is a smart investment. It directly helps economic growth, creates jobs, reduces poverty, and improves communities. He called on governments, banks, international organizations, and private companies to create fair systems. These systems must give women equal chances to get funding, training, mentorship, and access to markets.