10,255 Women Gain Financial Access Through CWSLA Program

In a landmark achievement for women's economic empowerment in Sierra Leone, LEWAF's Community Women's Savings and Loaning Association (CWSLA) program has facilitated financial access for 10,255 women across 13 sub-urban communities.

The CWSLA model is simple but transformative: groups of women in the same community pool small regular savings contributions into a collective fund. Members can then access low-interest loans for business development, emergency needs, or household investments. The program also includes a Finance Booster Scheme that provides additional seed capital to high-performing groups.

Beyond Money: Building Community

The impact goes far beyond financial access. Women who participate in CWSLA groups report increased confidence, stronger community bonds, and greater agency in household decision-making. Many describe it as the first time in their lives they have had a financial safety net.

"Before LEWAF came to our community, I had no way to save money safely or access a loan. Now I run a small business and send my children to school." — Fatmata, Waterloo CWSLA member

LEWAF also runs Business Development Skills Training alongside the savings groups, ensuring that women have the knowledge to grow sustainable livelihoods. Five Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have been established as direct outcomes of these training programs.