Benguerir – The “FEMMPACT” program celebrated its closing ceremony today at the Benguerir’s campus of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), marking the conclusion of a groundbreaking initiative designed to uplift women entrepreneurs in West Africa.
Launched in 2023, “FEMMPACT” is the result of exemplary triangular cooperation between the Kingdom of Morocco, the Federal Government of Germany, the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and the Republics of Ivory Coast and Senegal.
The program, led by the Social Innovation Lab (SIL) at UM6P, the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ), and the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), embodies Morocco’s vision for promoting South-South solidarity, cooperation, and sustainable development.
Sebastian Wilde, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, spoke to Morocco World News on “FEMMPACT’s” broader impact.
“The kick-off meeting for ‘FEMMPACT’ was actually last year in December, and we thought it would be a good idea because fostering female entrepreneurship is also a priority for my minister in Germany. Developing more female entrepreneurship in African countries is a key focus,” he explained.
A morning of celebration
The day’s program began with a visit to the “FEMMPACT” Expo Village, where attendees discovered prototypes developed by the program’s participants.
Each project reflected the innovation and creativity nurtured by “FEMMPACT,” showcasing the diverse sectors of agro-food, renewable energy, and natural cosmetics.
During his opening speech, Mohamed Hicham Baiz, director of Triangular Cooperation and Sustainable Human Development Projects, highlighted the program’s commitment to fostering women’s entrepreneurship as a driver of sustainable development.
“The program aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to develop their business ideas and create lasting impact,” Baiz said. “Through this partnership, we are fostering innovative solutions that contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous future, reinforcing the essential role of women in shaping Africa’s economic landscape.”
The ceremony continued with a “best-of” video highlighting the program’s journey, followed by heartfelt speeches from representatives of Senegal and Ivory Coast, who celebrated the program’s impact on their local communities.
Transforming ideas into impact
FEMMPACT accompanied 80 women entrepreneurs, selecting 18 outstanding participants — 9 from Senegal and 9 from Ivory Coast — who participated in an intensive Moroccan Entrepreneurial Residence.
These women represent the future of African entrepreneurship, bringing innovative ideas to life and creating jobs in their communities.
The program’s achievements were made possible by the dedication of Moroccan, German, Senegalese, and Ivorian experts, alongside six incubators that played a pivotal role in supporting participants.
Over 1,600 candidates applied to “FEMMPACT,” demonstrating the high demand for such transformative initiatives.
Launching the ‘FEMMPACT’ network
A significant highlight was the launch of the “FEMMPACT” Network, a platform designed to sustain the momentum of the program by fostering collaboration, mentorship, and capacity building among women entrepreneurs.
This network symbolizes the collective commitment to ensuring women’s entrepreneurship continues to thrive across Africa.
Certificates and diplomas were presented to the participants, recognizing their resilience, creativity, and determination.
The day ended with a group photo, capturing the spirit of collaboration and progress that defines “FEMMPACT.”
She-E-O energy: the next chapter
As the event concluded, participants and organizers reflected on “FEMMPACT’s broader impact. This program underscores Morocco’s dedication to South-South cooperation as a catalyst for Africa’s emergence as a global leader.
King Mohammed VI’s message to the Women in Africa initiative in 2018 resonates deeply with “FEMMPACT’s” goals: “Africa, which is resolutely advancing in its quest for the status of emerging power, needs innovative and targeted initiatives.Africa is called to exploit all its potentials in an optimal way, especially its immaterial capital, and to enhance its skills, especially those of women.”
As “FEMMPACT” closes one chapter, its organizers say they are keen to see the increasingly iconic event open the door to ambitious new initiatives. The ultimate vision, they have insisted, is to work toward strengthening ties between partners and entrepreneurs while paving the way for a more inclusive, innovative, and prosperous Africa.
