By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

KADUNA — In a bid to combat financial exclusion and uplift small-scale women entrepreneurs, 1,500 women in Kaduna State have been empowered with vital financial tools, including free health insurance, debit cards, and business support services.

The initiative, launched by PalmPay Nigeria, was introduced as part of its broader campaign to support women traders through its “Passing the Baton” programme.

Speaking at the empowerment and financial literacy event in Kaduna, PalmPay’s Head of Communication and Marketing, Olorunfemi Hanson, said the programme was designed to equip women with essential financial skills and tools to grow their businesses.

“We are here to empower 1,500 women with financial literacy and access to financial amenities that will support their entrepreneurial journeys,” Hanson said.

He noted that the women would receive free healthcare coverage for one month, after which they could continue with a subsidized health insurance plan at N500 per month. The initiative is in partnership with AXA Mansard, a leading insurance provider, and is accessible via the PalmPay app.

Hanson explained that internal research by the fintech firm revealed significant gaps in financial literacy and inclusion, particularly among market women who remain largely unbanked or underbanked.

“Our findings show that while many are open to adopting digital platforms like PalmPay, there’s still a high level of financial illiteracy. This initiative is aimed at bridging that gap by creating awareness and providing the skills needed to navigate digital finance,” he stated.

Beyond healthcare, beneficiaries will also enjoy free money transfers and additional business support through PalmPay’s platform.

“Women are the economic powerhouses. When you support a woman, the impact extends to the family and the larger community. That’s why we are beginning with women, and we intend to expand to other groups, including the youth,” Hanson added.

Many of the women beneficiaries expressed excitement and gratitude for the initiative, saying the support would significantly boost their businesses and financial independence.