As we celebrate International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, we are reminded of the remarkable vision, resilience, and innovation that women bring to economies across Africa and around the world. At Kobikam, this day reinforces our commitment to supporting women as they step fully into leadership, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven impact.

A few months ago, we engaged in a meaningful conversation with the brilliant minds at Lead For Good Africa, reflecting on equity, leadership, and the mindset shifts that enable women to thrive, not only as leaders, but as entrepreneurs who are shaping markets, industries, and communities.

Through our work in Gender Advisory and Consultancy, we continue to see that the greatest obstacles women face are often not a lack of capacity, but the weight of limiting mindsets. These internal barriers can be subtle, yet they greatly and persistently influence how women show up in business and leadership.

Some of the most common issues include:

• Misunderstood Identity – Not fully recognising or owning one’s worth.
• Lack of an Uplifting Community – Operating without networks that challenge, inspire, and elevate.
• Shrinking Potential – Thinking too small, even when there is capacity and vision for more.
• Fear of Failure – Holding back from bold decisions or new ventures.
• Anxiety Around Perception – Concern about being viewed as “too ambitious” or “too outspoken.”

On a day such as this, dedicated to honouring women entrepreneurs worldwide, it becomes even more important to dismantle these internal and external barriers. Women are driving economic growth, reducing poverty, creating sustainable solutions, and redefining what leadership looks like. Supporting them is not just good practice, it is essential for inclusive development.

So how do we continue moving forward?

• Championing Women’s Economic Empowerment – Invest in professional development, mentorship, coaching, and networks that strengthen entrepreneurial skills and confidence. Growth is strategic, not optional.
• Encourage Strong Identity and Purpose – A grounded sense of self and clarity of vision is foundational for building resilient, impactful businesses.
• Promote Action Over Perfection – Entrepreneurship thrives on experimentation. Progress begins with the courage to take the next step.
• Advocate for Women in Economic and Business Leadership – From policy spaces to investment rooms to markets and boardrooms, representation matters. When women are visible, industries transform.
• Celebrate the Multidimensionality of Women – Beyond business titles, women bring diverse passions, experiences, and strengths that enrich their entrepreneurial journeys.

At Kobikam, we remain deeply committed to supporting women entrepreneurs, those who are building enterprises, challenging norms, and creating opportunities across Africa. Today, we celebrate the women whose work fuels resilience, economic inclusion and a desire for long-term impact. We reaffirm our mission to create environments where women can lead boldly, grow fearlessly, and unlock their fullest potential. We hope that women never stop knocking on doors and filling up rooms that have long been closed. 

Happy International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day.