In a landmark move to advance financial inclusion and economic empowerment in Côte d'Ivoire, CARE and Orange Bank Africa have announced a strategic partnership to promote financial autonomy among women and youth, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
This partnership aims to deliver tailored savings and credit solutions to members of Community Savings and Loans Associations (known locally as AVEC), supporting them in launching income-generating initiatives and building sustainable economic futures.
A Collaboration Built on Strengths
· Orange Bank Africa, with over 2 million users, brings its digital banking expertise, offering accessible financial services across the country.
· CARE, drawing on more than 20 years of field experience in Côte d’Ivoire, contributes a strong grassroots network of over 14,000 AVEC groups, 70 percent of which are led by women.
Together, they will co-develop innovative financial tools designed specifically to meet the needs of underbanked populations—those often excluded from traditional financial systems.
A Broader Vision for Local Development
Beyond individual financial inclusion, the partnership will explore initiatives to support local economic development, including the strengthening of value chains, improving access to credit, and promoting community resilience.
Additionally, the partnership includes support for CARE’s internal mutual fund, MACARE, ensuring a broader and more sustainable impact at the organizational level.
A Shared Commitment to Social Transformation
This initiative reflects a shared commitment from both CARE and Orange Bank Africa to foster economic opportunity, create jobs, and provide long-term access to digital financial services. By focusing on structural solutions and the economic empowerment of marginalized groups, the collaboration aims to be a catalyst for social change.
“Financial inclusion is not just about access to money – it's about creating lasting opportunities and dignity for women and young people,” said representatives from both organizations.
Together, CARE and Orange Bank Africa are building the foundations for a more inclusive and prosperous Côte d'Ivoire.
