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Women entrepreneurs highlighted as leaders in sustainable sourcing across Africa
WEConnect International convened over 200 women business owners, member buyers, government representatives, and ecosystem partners in Johannesburg for the Africa Regional Summit 2025, themed “Leveraging the Power of Access.” The two-day summit underscored a critical global challenge: women-owned businesses still receive less than 1% of corporate and government procurement spend.
Elizabeth A. Vazquez, CEO and Co-Founder, WEConnect International:“As a global network committed to unlocking opportunity, we know this isn’t just an issue of fairness—it’s a missed business opportunity. Women entrepreneurs bring competitive, scalable solutions to the table. When they gain access to markets, everyone benefits—from stronger supply chains to thriving communities.”
WEConnect International operates in over 135 markets and certifies women-owned businesses in 60 countries. With more than 20,000 women entrepreneurs in its network and over 180 engaged member buyers representing $4 trillion in purchasing power, the organization serves as a trusted bridge between suppliers and sourcing professionals worldwide.
The Africa Summit 2025 delivered high-impact conversations, matchmaking, and regional collaboration aimed at increasing visibility and opportunity for women-owned businesses across the continent. Leaders of the South Africa and Kenya Women Business Enterprise (WBE) Councils were instrumental in shaping the program, reflecting the power of Pan-African partnership and local leadership.
Featured participants included:
Jessica Manhica, WEConnect International Market Lead, South Africa
Kulani Shiluvane, Founder, Shiluvah
Ayanda Mzondeki, Founder & CEO, Liyema Consulting Group
Colette Crichton, Managing Director, Creative Simplicity
Aarifa Ellemdeen, Founder, Chique Events
Mahlako Mahapa, Managing Director, Maina SA (Pty) Ltd
Ninoy Kichari, Director, Proscene Systems Limited
Strategic voices from across the region and globe included:
Gary Joseph, CEO, South African Supplier Diversity Council
Oltesh Thobias, Regional Chief Procurement and Contracts Officer, African Development Bank
Tanya Ninganga-Kaponda, Graça Machel Trust
Nokuthula Lukhele, Partner & Digital Transformation Lead, ThirdSpace Africa
Prof. Narnia Bohler-Muller, Human Sciences Research Council
Valerie Geen, National Coordinator, UNIDO and SASDC
Vanessa Adams, Founder & CEO, Level4International
Frida Owinga, Regional Director, WEConnect International – Africa
Frida Owinga, Africa Regional Director,WEConnect International: “These discussions must turn into action. By expanding access to capital, markets, and networks, we’re empowering women entrepreneurs to grow competitive businesses that deliver impact far beyond the bottom line.”
Sessions also explored sustainable sourcing and the integration of women-led businesses into green value chains—spotlighting women’s leadership in building a more resilient and inclusive African economy.
The summit reinforced WEConnect International’s role as a catalyst for market access and global growth—offering participants actionable strategies, new business leads, and a renewed commitment to changing the global procurement landscape, starting with Africa.
