U Microfinance Bank Limited (U Bank), CARE Pakistan, and Mastercard have joined forces in a partnership to enhance financial access for women entrepreneurs across Pakistan. The collaboration, formalized through a MoU signed in Islamabad, is part of the Strive Women Program, aimed at bridging the financial inclusion gap by developing innovative, women-focused financial products.
MoU was signed by Mohamed Essa Al Taheri, President & CEO of U Bank, and Adil Sheraz, Country Director of CARE Pakistan, in the presence of Arslan Khan, Country Representative of Mastercard. Senior management and staff from all three organizations attended the event, underscoring the importance of this initiative in advancing women’s economic empowerment.
The partnership is designed to empower women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by addressing their unique challenges and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. By promoting financial inclusion and supporting women entrepreneurs, the initiative aims to advance the agenda of Women’s Economic Justice (WEJ) and contribute to building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Speaking at the event, Adil Sheraz emphasized the critical role of partnerships in overcoming the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs. He highlighted the importance of providing tailored support to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Arslan Khan reaffirmed Mastercard’s commitment to fostering gender inclusion, describing the initiative as a reflection of the company’s dedication to empowering women and creating an inclusive economic ecosystem.
Mohamed Essa Al Taheri shared his vision for the collaboration, describing it as a significant step toward fostering innovation, driving growth, and enabling meaningful contributions to society. He reiterated U Bank’s commitment to building an environment where women entrepreneurs can succeed and achieve their full potential.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment by U Bank, CARE Pakistan, and Mastercard to provide financial solutions that address the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. By creating innovative products and fostering financial inclusion, the collaboration aims to unlock the potential of women-led businesses and contribute to sustainable economic development in Pakistan.
