Our #WCW today is Dr. Ethel Mupambwa, a remarkable Zimbabwean entrepreneur whose journey epitomizes resilience, innovation, and determination. Born in Gokwe on 7 January 1985, Ethel’s path was far from easy.
From working as a cleaner at Wimpy after college to interning at Ernst & Young during her studies, she experienced firsthand the struggles of building a career from humble beginnings. Yet, these challenges became stepping stones, shaping her into the visionary leader she is today. Her entrepreneurial spirit sparked early, starting with an internet café while still at NUST.
In 2011, she founded her first microfinance start-up, Blaketect Finance, which unfortunately failed within a year. But failure did not deter her. Instead, she pivoted, launching Cake Mart, and used the proceeds to fund her second microfinance venture.
[paywall]
That bold move birthed MoneyMart Finance in 2014, a company that has since grown into one of Zimbabwe’s most impactful financial institutions, serving over 180,000 customers with 21 branches nationwide. MoneyMart Finance is more than just a business—it is a mission. With over $80 million in loans disbursed, 70% of its clients being women and 50% youths, Ethel has made financial inclusion her life’s work.
Her leadership has not only empowered thousands of microentrepreneurs but also contributed to the creation of more than 30,000 jobs. Beyond finance, Ethel has championed sustainable development initiatives. Since 2018, she has distributed over 3,000 Pay-As-You-Go solar home systems in rural areas, giving children more study time and women extended working hours.
She has also supported rural schools with sanitary wear, ensuring the girl child remains safe and confident. These efforts tie directly into global Sustainable Development Goals, particularly poverty reduction, gender equality, and clean energy access. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed.
In 2020, she won $150,000 as Africa’s Business Heroes Second Runner-up, and in 2021, she was crowned Business Woman of the Year. With numerous accolades from SMEAZ, ZAMFI, and Women In Africa, Ethel’s impact has been recognized both locally and internationally. She also serves as Zimbabwe’s Country Facilitator for Digital Frontiers Institute and is a founding trustee of the Digital Finance Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe.
Today, Dr. Ethel Mupambwa stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her journey from Gokwe to becoming a celebrated business leader proves that perseverance, vision, and a commitment to community can transform lives. Through MoneyMart Finance and her advocacy for financial literacy, she continues to break barriers, empower women and youths, and redefine what it means to be a purpose-driven entrepreneur in Africa.
[/paywall]
All Zim News – Bringing you the latest news and updates.
