MTN Uganda expands support for women entrepreneurs with launch of MTNAWE Phase 2

By:  Robert Annor

MTN Uganda has launched Phase 2 of its Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (MTNAWE) programme in Gulu, marking a major step forward in empowering women-led businesses and strengthening the country’s digital and economic landscape. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, presided over the ceremony, which also included the commissioning of the largest MTN site in Northern Uganda and a celebration of the achievements of the first MTNAWE cohort.

The MTNAWE initiative, introduced two years ago, was designed to give women entrepreneurs greater access to business opportunities, financing, training, and mentorship. Since its inception, 118 women-led enterprises have participated in the programme. These businesses have collectively secured contracts worth Shs 18 billion from MTN, obtained Shs 1.6 billion in subsidized loans through DFCU Bank’s Women in Business programme, and completed training in procurement, financial management, technical skills, and ESG compliance.

Among the beneficiaries is Stella Lunkuse, who expanded her solar business, created new jobs, and secured major MTN contracts. Her progress reflects the broader impact of MTNAWE in enabling women to scale their enterprises and contribute to community development.

Speaking at the event, Mulinge said the programme is a strategic investment in Uganda’s economic future rather than a charitable initiative. She emphasized that empowering women strengthens supply chains, drives innovation, and supports families and communities across the country.

MTN Uganda has partnered with DFCU Bank, ATC, and The Innovation Village to advance the programme’s goals. Through this collaboration, the company aims to decentralize opportunity and ensure that women across all regions have the resources and support they need to grow and lead in Uganda’s economic transformation.