The GBA is a consortium of financial institutions driving women's wealth creation with membership of more than 135 countries to build programs that empower women with the tools they need to succeed.
The bank received the award during the 14th Global Banking Alliance summit in Brazil held recently, that drew more than 150 stakeholders from banks and International Finance Institutions, as well as regulators, policymakers and thought leaders from around the world to discuss concrete actions that can be taken to advance the economic inclusion of women around the world, and share best practices, innovations and lessons learned around serving the Women's Market.
While handing over the “Women’s Market Champion” award to Centenary Bank’s General Manager Business Development and Marketing, Beatrice Lugalambi and Supervisor Women Banking Hellen Tomusange, the CEO of GBA, Inez Murray, congratulated the bank upon setting the trend in the country and region. Ms Inez urged other banks and financial institutions to adopt women-focused programmes and concentrate on products that suit the needs of customers.
“GBA members are making a difference for women while simultaneously growing their bottom lines," Ms Inez said at the first-ever GBA Women’s Champions awards ceremony. "These exemplary banks are proving every day that not only is financing women the right thing to do – it also makes good business sense."
According to Hellen Tomusange, Centenary Bank Supervisor Women Banking, empowering women in society is a catalyst for economic development and should be part of every business strategy to attain this goal.
“By empowering women, we know that we’re empowering the economy. The SupaWoman Club for which we received the award aims to create equal financial opportunities to women. Through this programme, women members get an opportunity to network , access financial support for their businesses with ease and attain financial literacy in the most convenient and effective ways possible,” Ms Tomusange said.
The bank also set up a business advisory center for the women, at its headquarters, Mapeera House, following launch of the SupaWoman Club earlier this year.
FACTFILE (GLOBAL FIGURES):
80% of women-owned small and medium enterprises with credit needs are un-served or under-served.
73% of women globally report being unsatisfied with their banking services.
Up to 33% of private businesses are owned or operated by women internationally.
