The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing green growth and sustainable development in Nigeria, particularly for women-led enterprises. British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter announced this during the second edition of W.O.M.A.N by Alitheia, a high-level forum on sustainable manufacturing and agribusiness, held in Lagos.
Organized by Alitheia Capital in partnership with the UK’s Manufacturing Africa program, the event convened policymakers, investors, and women entrepreneurs to discuss Africa’s clean energy transition. Under the theme “Scaling Sustainable Manufacturing & Energy Transition for Women-led SMEs in Africa,” discussions highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy adoption.
Key Commitments & Insights
✅ UK Support: Baxter emphasized the UK’s dedication to expanding funding and skills for women-led businesses, calling them “indispensable” to sustainable industrialization.
✅ Cost Savings: Alitheia Capital reported 60% lower energy costs for SMEs in its portfolio after switching to renewables.
✅ New Initiatives:
- Nzinga Platform – Alitheia’s SME training program for sustainable scaling.
- Green Business Building Accelerator – A Manufacturing Africa project to boost eco-friendly manufacturing and jobs.
Why It Matters
With rising fuel and electricity costs, Nigerian SMEs face mounting pressure to adopt clean energy—a shift proven to cut costs while supporting green growth.
Quote:
“Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s an economic imperative,” said Tokunboh Ishmael, Alitheia Capital’s co-founder. “Women entrepreneurs are leading this transition, and we’re here to scale their impact.”
The event concluded with calls for better funding access, stronger policies, and ecosystem support to accelerate Nigeria’s inclusive green economy.
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