What You Need to Know
The Confederation of Business Associations in Mozambique emphasizes the crucial role women play in economic diplomacy and national development. Despite facing challenges like economic inequality and gender-based violence, women manage a significant portion of small and medium enterprises, driving economic growth and community empowerment. The call for greater support and empowerment of women is a
Africa-Press – Mozambique. Mozambique’s Confederation of Business Associations (CTA) believes that women play a decisive role in the country’s economic diplomacy, demonstrating female strength in national socio-economic development.
According to CTA executive director, Teresa Muenda, speaking on Thursday in Maputo at the “Women of Excellence Conference”, despite their significant value, women still face structural challenges, including economic inequality and gender-based violence.
“Women manage approximately 60 per cent of small and medium enterprises in our country and play a crucial role in the economy and economic diplomacy, being an essential engine for development and the generation of business opportunities,” she said.
Muenda called for more empowerment of women because “they move societies and play a central role in economic development and economic diplomacy, promoting business opportunities and strengthening the family and community economy.”
“Women support their families, teach other communities, and promote trade, crossing borders in search of opportunities. This is the economic diplomacy of our women,” she said.
Muenda also highlighted the strategic role of economic diplomacy in opening international doors for women entrepreneurs.
“Economic diplomacy generates international opportunities and allows women to transform themselves and set up businesses that strengthen the economy,” she said.
“Women need real economic power, not just symbolic inclusion. When a woman grows, a family and a community prosper,” she added.
The country’s strategic geographic location and natural resources can support economic development “and women can consolidate their transformative role.”
“The country is rich in potential, but we need to ensure that women have access and space to fully develop,” she said.
Historically, women in Mozambique have been integral to the economy, often managing small and medium enterprises that contribute significantly to local and national growth. However, they have faced systemic barriers, including economic inequality and social challenges that hinder their full participation in economic activities. The recent focus on women’s roles in economic diplomacy highlights a shift towards recognizing their contributions and the need for policies that support their empowerment and access to resources.
