The “I am Cap” initiative is transforming lives, empowering more than 1 000 marginalised women to become successful entrepreneurs while overcoming their physical disabilities.

She once faced rejection and was marginalised by her own family and her community because of her physical disability. For Nelia things became so bad that she dropped out of school and even stopped going to church.

But thanks to the Vodacom DRC Foundation, Nelia and more than 1 000 women like her have had the opportunity to change their lives for the better.

In 2022, the Foundation, in collaboration with Visa and the Ministry of People Living with Disabilities, launched the ambitious Je Suis Cap (“I am Cap”) programme to empower women with disabilities and who have albinism.

The programme aims to show that women in vulnerable positions are 100% capable. Women from the capital city, Kinshasa, as well as wider regions, enrolled and have become capable and active breadwinners thanks to training and support from the Foundation.

Becoming entrepreneurs

The women on the “I am Cap” programme receive training to become M-Pesa agents. The training gives them insights into how to run a business, including financial advice, to help ensure they succeed.

At the end of their training, they receive an M-Pesa agent kit, which includes a workstation and smartphone, so they can get started.

The entrepreneurs also receive follow-up sessions to ensure their ongoing success.

A huge success

In July, Vodacom CEO Khalil Al Americani welcomed 100 of the beneficiaries of the “I am Cap” programme to Vodacom’s headquarters. In his opening address, he extended his heartfelt encouragement and unwavering support for the special guests.

He also assured them that Vodacom would continue to support them and walk alongside them on their entrepreneurial journey and expressed confidence in their ability to thrive.

Khalil pointed out that their disabilities do not define them – in fact, it is a catalyst for them to innovate to improve their lives, he said.

An ongoing commitment

Out of the more than 1 000 women who have enrolled in the programme, 650 have completed the training required to become M-Pesa agents. Nearly 500 have taken the leap to getting their own business up and running. This means they’re generating income, allowing them to provide for their loved ones and break the cycle of poverty.

Through the “I am Cap” initiative, we are helping to break down barriers and create new opportunities for people who are often overlooked and underestimated.

Vodacom is proud to stand with these women, empowering them and helping them to embrace their capabilities.