Telecel Ghana Foundation has equipped 60 women from the Tunteeya and Tisuntaba Shea Butter Cooperatives in Tamale with essential digital and financial skills to boost their businesses. The training forms part of the Telecel’s sustainability commitment to fostering inclusion, empowering women, and bridging the digital divide.
The comprehensive workshop covered a wide range of topics, including digital transactions, budgeting, savings, social media advertising, and debt management. The topics were carefully selected and tailored to meet the crucial need in today’s digital age, positioning participants to expand their businesses, manage their finances more effectively, and navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
To further support their learning, two participating sub-groups made up of 30 women received a brand-new smartphone each, ensuring they have the tools needed to effectively apply the digital strategies discussed during the training and to facilitate their business operations. The groups were selected after a short pitching competition.
“We are thrilled to have empowered these remarkable women with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in the digital age,” said Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications Manager at Telecel Ghana. “By providing them with digital and financial literacy skills, we are unlocking their potential to reach wider markets, enhance their financial management and ultimately improve their livelihoods.”
Esi Yeboah, Digital Transformation Specialist at Telecel Ghana, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion. "At Telecel Ghana, we believe that empowering women with digital skills is not just about equipping them for today, but also about investing in the future of our communities. By equipping these women with the tools and knowledge to build sustainable businesses, we are enabling them to thrive in the modern economy," she said.
The training also served as an opportunity to bridge the digital divide and promote financial inclusion among small-scale women entrepreneurs who often face challenges in accessing financial services and markets.
"Access to digital tools and financial literacy is a game-changer for women in rural areas. With these new skills and smartphones, they can now manage their finances better, market their products more effectively, and ultimately improve their livelihoods," stated Elom Amedume, Telecel Cash, Key Account Manager.
The participants expressed their gratitude and excitement about the training’s impact on their businesses. Amina, a member of the Tunteeya Shea Butter Cooperative, shared, "This training has opened my eyes to the many possibilities that digital tools offer. I can now confidently manage my finances, market my shea butter products online, and even connect with customers far beyond Tamale.
Telecel Ghana remains steadfast in its mission to drive digital and financial inclusion across the country. Through initiatives like this, the organization continues to play a pivotal role in empowering communities, supporting small businesses, and contributing to the socio-economic development of Ghana.
Looking ahead, Telecel Ghana will continue to leverage technology and partnerships to create opportunities and build a more connected, empowered, and prosperous nation, and transform lives.