Mozambique: BCI hosts investment forum with women at the centre of business

The BCI Auditorium in Maputo hosted the second edition of the Women Investment Forum, an initiative organised by Global Business Network Africa (GBNA), which brought together women in business, entrepreneurs, leaders, professionals, investors and institutional representatives under the theme “Let’s Talk about Business”.

In an institutional message, BCI’s Chairman of the Executive Committee, José Furtado, highlighted the importance of the initiative and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to female entrepreneurship:

“Investing in women means believing in their ability to turn an idea into a business, a business into a source of employment, and an opportunity into a better future for many families. At BCI, we want to continue contributing to ensuring that more women have access to the resources, knowledge and opportunities they need to grow. Because Mozambique’s future is built on the talent, determination and confidence of its women.”

The meeting provided a space for learning, sharing and networking among participants, highlighting the role of women in wealth creation, business leadership and investment decisions in Mozambique and Africa.

At the opening of the event, BCI representative Tânia Sitoe Zandamela, Commercial Director, underlined that hosting the initiative reflected a conviction that had guided the bank throughout its history:

“When you invest in women, you also invest in the development of families, communities and the country,” she said.

The representative highlighted the solutions the bank has developed to support small businesses and companies, as well as financing instruments for investment and working capital support. She also referred to partnerships with public and private entities to establish credit lines and guarantee funds.

For Tânia Zandamela, supporting female entrepreneurs also involves knowledge and capacity-building.

“It is equally important to promote financial education, management training, access to information and connections to markets and business networks,” she stressed, adding that this combination helps turn good ideas into stronger businesses.

Throughout the forum, participants discussed topics such as leadership, finance, innovation and business growth, in a programme focused on exchanging experiences and creating business opportunities.

In his assessment of the meeting, the President and Founder of Global Business Network Africa, Jorge Duarte Bruno, highlighted the conviction that brought participants together: “investing in women is transforming Africa”. He also stressed that the knowledge acquired and relationships established could continue to generate decisions and opportunities beyond the event.

He expressed his appreciation to the speakers, moderators, exhibitors, participants, organising team and partners, with special recognition for BCI, the institutional partner, for its contribution to making the initiative possible.

The hosting of the Women Investment Forum at the BCI Auditorium forms part of the bank’s commitment to initiatives that promote financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and women’s participation in economic development. This commitment takes on particular significance in the year in which BCI celebrates 30 years of history in Mozambique.