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Equity Group Foundation and UNDP Partner to Drive Inclusive Growth for African Youth
Equity Group Foundation (EGF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost innovation and support businesses across Africa.
The goal is to accelerate inclusive economic growth and give young people stronger opportunities to thrive.
New Innovation Hubs to Support Entrepreneurs
Through this partnership, the two organizations will establish centers of excellence under UNDP’s timbuktoo initiative. These hubs will nurture innovation and equip African entrepreneurs with practical skills.
They will offer training, mentorship, and easier access to financing. As a result, young innovators will be able to build and scale climate-neutral, high-potential businesses.
Speaking during the signing, Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi described the partnership as a major step toward empowering young Africans.
He said that Equity Bank has always focused on inclusion, especially in the digital and technology spaces. According to him, the collaboration will give young innovators the tools, networks, and market access they need.
With Equity operating in seven African countries and serving a population of more than 350 million people, innovators will gain access to a broad regional market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Equity Group Foundation and UNDP Partner to Drive Inclusive Growth
Strengthening Value Chains and Economic Empowerment
The partnership also aims to promote socio-economic development through programs that support education, financial inclusion, gender equality, and climate action.
UNDP and EGF will identify high-potential value chains and sectors, then design targeted interventions that help MSMEs and communities unlock growth.
UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, emphasized that the collaboration will help build a more innovative and sustainable future.
She noted that the timbuktoo initiative will nurture entrepreneurs, strengthen value chains, and expand socio-economic empowerment. She added that this joint effort will help Africa shift “from potential to prosperity.”
Shared Commitment to Africa’s Transformation
This cooperation reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to advance transformation across the continent. By combining their strengths, UNDP and Equity Group aim to support young people, accelerate innovation, and drive long-term socio-economic progress.
The partnership aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Equity Group’s Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), reinforcing a joint vision for an inclusive and thriving Africa.
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