In the Spotlight: Some inspiring women entrepreneurs from Mali
#MaliWomenRising #FearlessFemmesOfMali #WomenMeanBusiness #SheBuildsMali #EntrepreneurshipUnbound
In Mali, a land of rich culture and resilience, women entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules of business. These women are proving that courage, creativity & community spirit can drive powerful economic change, against a backdrop of political instability and socio-cultural limitations.
Across the country also known as called “The Eyes of Africa” – from the bustling markets of Bamako to the culturally vibrant Mopti region – women are at the heart of Mali’s informal economy. So, whether it’s crafting intricate jewellery, dyeing colourful fabrics, or running small restaurants and shops, they are the quiet engines keeping local economies alive. In fact, nearly 40% of the businesses that receive development support in Mali are led by women – a number that speaks volumes about their entrepreneurial spirit and persistence.
Malian Women Mean Business – and the Future Looks Bold
But these women aren’t just surviving, they’re innovating. They’re making strides in agriculture, food processing, construction, and even in male-dominated fields like environmental technology and digital communications. Their work creates jobs, lifts communities, and breaks down traditional gender roles in the process.
Still, challenges remain. Many face limited access to capital, training, and formal support systems. Cultural expectations continue to hinder their full potential. But what stands out is their ability to adapt and lead in adversity.
Let us celebrate some of Mali’s most inspiring women entrepreneurs – trailblazers who are not only building businesses, but also transforming lives. Their stories are proof that when women rise, entire communities rise with them.
> Dr Aminata Dembele, CEO & Founder, Massa Mousso Queens of Technologies
Dr Aminata Dembele, CEO & Founder of Massa Mousso Queens of Technologies. She has been actively working to bridge the gender gap in technology & fostering an environment where women can thrive and contribute to the digital landscape and also provide resources, mentorship, and a supportive community for women interested in AI and technology.
As Malian women face barriers to technology, limiting opportunities and involvement, Massa Mousso empowers Malian women (aged 18 to 45) – by providing training in digital content creation and AI. This project bridges the digital divide, enhances economic opportunities & fosters greater participation in decision-making, driving social and economic development in Mali.
MASSAMOUSSO (Queens of Technologies) is an initiative – dedicated to the empowerment of women through digital content creation & artificial intelligence.
> Fatoumata Coulibaly, Founder, Femmes du Mali Vert
A trailblazer in Mali’s agri-business sector is Fatoumata Coulibaly, Founder, Femmes du Mali Vert is. She founded her company, an agricultural enterprise that focuses on sustainable farming practices. She is involved in training rural women in eco-friendly farming methods; and by doing this, she is not only empowering them with the skills to grow their own food but also helping them create small businesses from their produce.
Her company exports organic vegetables and grains to neighbouring countries, boosting both local and international trade.
> Aïssata Diakité, Founder of Zabbaan
Aïssata Diakité is the visionary Founder behind Zabbaan. This is a company that produces natural fruit juices made from Mali’s local produce. Actually, this brand represents the best of Malian entrepreneurship and it had quickly become a household name after the launch. She emphasizes sustainability by sourcing fruits directly from local farmers, helping boost rural economies.
Besides, her success has not only helped put Mali on the map for healthy products but also demonstrated how local resources can be transformed into global products.
> Djénéba Gory, Founder & CEO of Mali Solaire
As the Founder and CEO of Mali Solaire, Djénéba Gory has shown exceptional leadership in bringing renewable energy to Mali’s underserved communities. Her company specializes in solar-powered energy solutions, that provide electricity to rural areas that otherwise have limited access to power. Her vision is – to reduce energy poverty in Mali while promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Her impact has extended beyond business, as she continues to champion for more women in the renewable energy sector.
> Oumou Sangaré, Musician & Businesswoman
Known mainly as a celebrated musician, Oumou Sangaré has made her mark in business too – as a successful entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a hotel in Bamako, which has become a popular destination for tourists.
She also launched her own car line – the “Oum Sang”, in collaboration with Chinese manufacturers. Through her ventures, she continues to invest in Mali’s economy, creating jobs and opportunities for others.
> Bintou Traoré, Founder of SmartTech Mali
Bintou Traoré is a tech innovator and the Founder of SmartTech Mali, which is a tech startup that focuses on providing digital solutions for businesses in Mali. From app development to digital marketing strategies – her company has revolutionized how local businesses approach technology.
Her expertise in technology has made her a role model for young women in Mali who aspire to enter the male-dominated tech industry. She also offers training programmes aimed at equipping women with digital skills for the future.
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
