Female Healthcare Entrepreneurs Discuss Opportunities and Barriers to Accessing Financing

Female healthcare entrepreneurs gathered at a recent event in Nairobi to discuss the challenges and opportunities in accessing health financing. Despite efforts to boost healthcare business financing, female entrepreneurs face barriers in securing adequate funding. A study revealed that women in Africa engage less with the banking sector compared to men, with lower loan amounts granted to women on average.

The Medical Credit Fund (MCF) conducted a study to address these issues and improve access to finance for female healthcare entrepreneurs in Africa. Successful female entrepreneurs shared their experiences at the event, highlighting the importance of tailored solutions and support from organizations like MCF.

One such entrepreneur, Anne Waita, owner of the Nairobi Radiotherapy and Cancer Center (NRCC), praised MCF for providing not just financial support but also valuable solutions for her business. MCF’s Cash Advance product has helped increase the share of loans disbursed to women and eliminated gender disparities in loan amounts.

The event was made possible by Swedfund, a Swedish state development finance institution, emphasizing the importance of inclusive financing solutions for all entrepreneurs. With a focus on quality improvement and business sustainability, organizations like MCF are working towards empowering female healthcare entrepreneurs in Africa.