Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Eight women-owned businesses have emerged as the inaugural recipients of the Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) contract worth UGX 1.6 billion an initiative, by MTN Uganda in collaboration with partners such as American Tower Corporation (ATC) Uganda. This initiative aims at empowering women entrepreneurs by integrating them into the telecommunications sector’s supply chain.
The initiative is designed to expand the supply base, foster strong partnerships, enhance business capacity, and cultivate sustainable ecosystems. It focuses on growing women entrepreneurs in the technological field. Sylvia Mulinge, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Uganda, expressed gratitude in witnessing ATC Uganda hand over contracts to these eight remarkable women-owned companies.
“These contracts, which involve the installation of solar plants at telecom masts, symbolize a significant step towards a more sustainable and inclusive future,” Mulinge noted. “This achievement highlights the success of our AWE initiative, which MTN Uganda leads to drive diversity and inclusion by integrating women entrepreneurs into our supply chain.”
Mulinge further added, “We are not only championing sustainability but also ensuring that our business practices empower women and foster true equality. This aligns with our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, demonstrating our dedication to reducing our environmental footprint while promoting responsible and inclusive business practices.”
According to her, the initiative was conceived out of the need to improve the number of women-led businesses that supply MTN Uganda, adding that the impact is being felt at the moment.
Through this partnership, ATC Uganda and MTN Uganda are transforming the business landscape, ensuring women have a strong presence and voice in sectors critical to Uganda’s growth. They encourage other organizations to collaborate, support these talented women, and contribute to a more diverse and equitable business ecosystem in Uganda. Together, they are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women leaders in the industry.
In the partnership, ATC Uganda is responsible for providing business opportunities to women entrepreneurs in technical fields such as solar and fiber-to-the-tower installations. The selected women have undergone training to equip them with the skills necessary for success in traditionally male-dominated fields, particularly in solar installation. This training was to ensure that they were well-prepared to meet the technical demands of their new roles.
Dorothy Semanda Kabagambe, CEO of ATC Uganda, expressed pride in leading this empowerment effort, stating, “ATC Uganda is committed to integrating women entrepreneurs into our supply chain and providing them with opportunities in engineering and technology. This is not just a business decision; it is a commitment to gender equality and sustainable development.”
Kabagambe emphasized that the initiative goes beyond merely increasing the number of women in the supply chain; it also ensures these women have the necessary skills, resources, and support to thrive. Through mentorship and coaching programs, ATC Uganda is building a sustainable business ecosystem where women can lead and succeed.
Gender equality in the telecommunications industry is crucial for its success. Diverse teams bring unique perspectives and ideas, which are essential for innovation and effective problem-solving. By ensuring equal representation and support for women, ATC Uganda is tapping into the full potential of the talent pool, leading to better business outcomes.
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