Ellever: Ecobank Accelerates Women’s Role in the DRC Mining Economy

In a rapidly transforming mining sector, where performance is increasingly linked to inclusion and sustainability, Ecobank DRC has set a clear ambition: to actively support women entrepreneurs and business leaders in accessing economic opportunities.

Through its Ellever program, launched in the DRC in 2021 and strengthened in 2025 with an enhanced version, the bank places women’s entrepreneurship at the center of its inclusive growth strategy.

A program designed for women entrepreneurs

Ellever offers an integrated approach combining financing, business support, training, mentoring and networking. The goal is to respond to the specific needs of women entrepreneurs, particularly those operating in strategic sectors such as mining services, logistics, energy, oil and gas, healthcare, hospitality and equipment supply.

For Ecobank DRC, women’s inclusion is not only a social priority. It is also a driver of economic performance. As Joël Kabuya, Deputy Managing Director of Ecobank DRC, explains, women entrepreneurs are already active in key sectors and can have an even greater impact in strategic regions such as Haut-Katanga.

More than 500 women supported

Since its deployment, Ellever has already supported more than 500 women entrepreneurs in the DRC. The program has provided more than USD 20 million in financing, with a target of USD 100 million in loans by 2030.

These figures reflect Ecobank’s commitment to go beyond traditional banking services. The program aims to support the long-term growth of women-owned or women-led businesses, as well as companies that include women in their governance.

Addressing real business challenges

Women entrepreneurs often face several barriers: limited access to finance, lack of information, capacity-building needs, limited access to markets and fewer networking opportunities.

Ellever responds to these challenges through a comprehensive model. It provides tailored financial solutions, market access, training programs, mentoring and networking opportunities with economic partners.

This enables participating businesses to structure their growth, access new markets and position themselves in high-potential value chains, including those connected to the mining sector.

Supporting a more inclusive economy

By placing Ellever at the center of its participation in DRC Mining Week, Ecobank DRC confirms its role as a committed partner in inclusive economic development.

In the Congolese economy, where mining is a strategic sector, integrating women into mining value chains represents a major opportunity. It strengthens local impact, diversifies economic participation and supports more sustainable growth.

Through Ellever, Ecobank aims to help women become key actors in the DRC’s economic transformation.

About The Author