The EntrepenHER programme has empowered over a thousand women microentrepreneurs with core business skills to grow their businesses. 

Implemented in 2018, the initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, De Beers Group and UN Women. 

At a certificate-awarding ceremony held at Luderitz, fifty women from ||Kharas and Hardap Regions celebrated the completion of the 'Improve Your Business' training under the EntrepenHER programme.

The certificate recipients shared how the training has equipped them to thrive in their businesses. 

"The training I received was transformative. It helps me refine my business plans, improve my financial literacy, and implement better operational systems. Most importantly, it boosts my confidence as an entrepreneur," said Anna Bostaander, one of the microentrepreneurs.

The Deputy Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Linda Mbwale, highlighted the EntrepenHER programme's alignment with key sustainable development goals, including ending poverty and hunger, promoting gender equality, and advancing decent work and economic growth. 

"Today we gathered here to recognise and celebrate the achievements of these women. They trained in November 2024 and have already made significant achievements in their enterprises. Some have registered their businesses after Improve Your Business; others have revamped their operating space and expanded their businesses."

Mbwale also expressed gratitude to De Beers Group and UN Women for their continued financial and technical support in advancing women's economic empowerment. 

De Beers Group, as partners in the programme, shared words of encouragement with the certificate recipients. 

"Every product you sell, every decision you make and every challenge you overcome is a quiet act of revolution against poverty. You are opening doors not just for yourselves but for the daughters, sisters and neighbours, who now see what is possible," said Nora Ndopu, Executive Manager at the Debmarine/Namdeb Foundation.

Agnes Phiri, the representative of UN Women South Africa Multi Office, described the certificate awarded to the recipients as a testament to resilience, learning, and an unshakeable belief in the empowerment of women in communities and nations. 

"Each of you has taken a bold step, not only to improve your businesses but also to improve your futures, your family's lives, and your communities. You have invested in knowledge, in discipline and in the courage to grow. It takes a lot."

The theme of EntrepenHER, 'Accelerating Women-Owned Enterprises', was the initial name of the initiative's phases one and two.

The initiative later underwent a rebranding to prioritise the role of women entrepreneurs.