Breaking Barriers: Tech Herfrica’s Role in Implementing Lagos’ Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy

1.0 Introduction

On 22nd July 2025, the Lagos State Government launched the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, a landmark initiative designed to foster inclusive economic growth for women across the state.

Tech Herfrica, in collaboration with the Policy Innovation Centre (PIC), has been instrumental in the policy’s preparatory phases. On 18th July 2025, the partnership conducted policy-testing across the five IBILE districts (Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe) and co-developed the capacity-building framework and curriculum. The next phase—full-scale implementation across all districts—will commence shortly, translating the policy into actionable tools for women’s economic advancement.

 

2.0 Programme Focus

The upcoming WEE capacity-building programme will target women across diverse economic sectors, prioritising those most in need. Key focus areas include:

  • Financial Literacy – Equipping women to make informed financial decisions and access relevant services.
  • Business Skills Development – Delivering practical training for market traders, informal retailers, small business owners, and women in food production, textiles, and crafts.
  • Market Linkages – Facilitating supplier-buyer connections to strengthen competitiveness.

Emphasis will be placed on young women, women with disabilities, and underserved communities to ensure equitable inclusion.

 

3.0 Programme Delivery (Planned Approach)

Implementation across the IBILE districts will adopt a participatory methodology:

  • Hands-On Learning: Simulated business exercises to reinforce skills.
  • Localised Curriculum: Content tailored to each district’s market dynamics.
  • Mentorship & Support: Ongoing guidance to aid real-world application.

4.0 Anticipated Outcomes

The WEE Policy is projected to deliver measurable impact, including:

  • Greater Financial Inclusion: Improved confidence in managing finances and engaging formal services.
  • Competitiveness Boost: Enhanced pricing, product presentation, and customer relations.
  • Market Expansion: New linkages to buyers beyond participants’ immediate localities.

5.0 Key Preparatory Insights

Lessons from the policy-testing and framework development (18th July) include:

  • Stakeholder Engagement is Critical: Early involvement of community leaders ensured contextual relevance.
  • Flexibility Enhances Adoption: The curriculum was refined during testing to address on-ground realities.
  • Partnerships Accelerate Progress: PIC’s technical expertise streamlined framework development.

6.0 Sustainability Strategy

To maximise long-term impact, Tech Herfrica will:

  • Scale Gradually: Expand implementation post-pilot, incorporating feedback.
  • Leverage Multi-Sector Partnerships: Collaborate with government, NGOs, and tech providers to widen access.
  • Monitor Rigorously: Track outcomes to iteratively improve delivery.
  • Promote Digital Access: Explore affordable device and internet solutions for beneficiaries.

7.0 Next Steps

With the policy launched and foundational work completed, Tech Herfrica and PIC are poised to commence district-level implementation. This marks a pivotal step toward transforming the WEE Policy from aspiration into tangible change by equipping women entrepreneurs in Lagos with the tools to thrive in the digital economy.

Tech Herfrica is committed to fostering inclusive economic growth, resilient communities, and sustainable innovation in Lagos and beyond.

 

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