Eight businesses owned by women have been selected as the first recipients of the UGX 1.6 billion Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) contract. This initiative, launched by MTN Uganda in partnership with American Tower Corporation (ATC) Uganda, is designed to support and empower women entrepreneurs by incorporating them into the telecommunications sector’s supply chain.
The initiative aims to broaden the supply base, build robust partnerships, boost business capabilities, and nurture sustainable ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on advancing women entrepreneurs in technology. Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, conveyed her appreciation as ATC Uganda presented contracts to these eight exceptional women-led businesses.
Mulinge said, “These contracts, which involve the installation of solar plants at telecom masts, symbolize a significant step towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. 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.”
She explained that the initiative was developed to boost the number of women-led businesses providing services to MTN Uganda, noting that its positive effects are already being experienced.
Through their partnership, ATC Uganda and MTN Uganda are reshaping the business environment by empowering women to take on significant roles in key sectors crucial to Uganda’s development. They urge other organizations to join in, support these skilled women, and help build a more diverse and fair business landscape in Uganda. By working together, they are overcoming obstacles and setting the stage for future generations of women leaders in the industry.
In the partnership, ATC Uganda is tasked with creating business opportunities for women entrepreneurs in technical sectors, including solar and fiber-to-the-tower installations. The chosen women have completed training programs designed to prepare them for success in these traditionally male-dominated fields, especially in solar installation. This training aimed to equip them with the technical skills required to excel in 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 highlighted that the initiative aims not just to boost the representation of women in the supply chain but also to equip them with essential skills, resources, and support for their success. ATC Uganda is fostering a sustainable business environment by providing mentorship and coaching, enabling women to lead and excel effectively.
