The Tony Elumelu Foundation, in partnership with GIZ and the European Union, held a workshop dedicated to women entrepreneurs working in the green economy. Through the IYBA-WE4A programme, which stands for Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurs for Africa, hundreds of women are being empowered to play a key role in building a more inclusive, sustainable, and fair economy.
The programme is open to women in Senegal and seven other African countries. It targets those who have a green business idea or an existing company in green or eco-friendly sectors. To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old and own a business that is less than five years old. Even women who only have an idea, without a registered company, are encouraged to apply. The programme offers full support, including a \$5,000 seed grant, as well as free training in business management, accounting, and networking.
Mame Fatou Ndiaye, Technical Advisor at GIZ, spoke with conviction about the importance of the programme. She said it is an honor and a strong personal commitment to be involved in launching this second cohort. The goal is to strengthen the economic empowerment of Senegalese women in green and eco-friendly sectors.
She explained that the programme is built on four key areas: starting with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, accelerating with GIZ, providing access to funding, and creating networking opportunities. The aim is to break down barriers and unlock the economic potential of women through practical training in leadership and entrepreneurship, along with financial support.
In Senegal, more than half of the population is made up of women, but many still face challenges when trying to participate in the economy. The programme wants to go beyond traditional roles that keep women at home. It offers them the tools they need to turn their ideas into real and impactful businesses.
Julien Kouassi, CEO of UBA Senegal and representative of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, also highlighted the importance of working together to support young women. He said the goal of this forum is to bring together women who want to start or grow a green business. The focus is not on making speeches, but on achieving real results.
He pointed out that unemployment affects women in particular, and that the IYBA-WE4A programme provides a real solution. Even with just an idea and no formal business, women can apply. They will receive \$5,000 in seed funding, training, coaching, and accounting support to help them build strong businesses.
For him, this effort is about more than just the economy. It is also about protecting the environment. It’s a double benefit, helping women while also caring for the planet.
He made it clear that the opportunity is open to all women, with no limit on the number of applicants. Any woman who wants to start something eco-friendly is welcome to apply, even if she’s starting from scratch. One of these ideas could become the next big green company in Senegal.
Applications can be submitted online at [www.tefconnect.com](http://www.tefconnect.com). The platform opened on October 6, 2025, and will remain open until January 25, 2026. No application fee is required. Any attempt at fraud or requests for payment should be reported immediately.
Once accepted, selected women will go through different stages of the programme. Only those who complete the full process will be eligible for the seed funding. However, support continues throughout the journey, with guidance from former participants who share their experiences and mentor the new group.
The Dakar workshop was more than just an event. It showed a strong commitment to believing in the potential of African women to drive a green and resilient economy. Through this programme, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, GIZ, and the European Union are offering real opportunities to women who have often been left out of entrepreneurship. Now, they have the chance to grow, create, and transform their ideas into green and ambitious businesses across Africa.
