17/07/2026
"When women have access to financial opportunities, entire communities prosper."
Yet, for many women in Sierra Leone, access to formal financial services remains a challenge.
According to the World Bank Global Findex Database -2021 reveals that only 25% of women in Sierra Leone have access to formal financial services. Similarly, a national study by the Ministry of Finance found that over 72% of informal sector workers-most of whom are women engaged in petty trading and farming, consider traditional banking too expensive, too distant, and burdened with complicated procedures.
The challenge is not a lack of willingness to save; it is a lack of access.
To address this gap, Caritas Sierra Leone Makeni, with support from DAHW, is implementing the Socio-Economic Empowerment Project for Women, Adolescent Girls, and Persons Living with Disabilities.
Through this project, 60 Village Savings and Loan Association [VSLA] groups have been established, 30 in Bombali District, and 30 in Karene District, bringing together 600 women to save together, access small loans, grow their businesses, and strengthen their household incomes.
The recent handover of VSLA savings boxes and record-keeping materials is more than the distribution of equipment. It provides the tools needed to promote transparency, accountability, and effective financial management within each group, laying the foundation for sustainable economic empowerment.
When women are equipped with the right knowledge, tools, and opportunities, they invest in their families, educate their children, grow their businesses, and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities.
Achieving sustainable economic empowerment requires strong partnerships, shared commitment, and continued investment in community-led solutions. We welcome collaboration with government institutions, development partners, civil society organizations, and local leaders to expand opportunities for women and ensure that no one is left behind.
Together, we can build stronger communities, one woman, one savings group, and one opportunity at a time.
Ministry of Finance, Sierra LeoneWorld Bank AfricaOffice of the Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh@topfans@followersUN WomenWomen's Initiative for Self-Empowerment - Sierra Leone World Bank AfricaWorld Bank GroupEuropean Union in Sierra LeoneCRS Sierra LeoneJulius Maada BioUnited Nations Development Programme - UNDPUNESCO