Technical assistance for increased gender equality

Gender equality and women’s economic empowerment are at the core of Swedfund’s strategy, and are one of the Company’s most important areas within impact on society. Swedfund actively works to support portfolio companies and financial institutions in implementing a gender equality perspective, including by helping them to fulfil the 2X Criteria and through technical assistance. One example of support offered through technical assistance is regarding the prevention and management of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH).

In partnership with the organisations Value for Women and the Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation, Swedfund has developed training for Swedfund’s portfolio companies, investors and financial institutions to strengthen their gender equality work, from both Gender Lens Investing (GLI) and SEAH perspectives. The training was held twice during 2024, first in Nairobi and subsequently in Abidjan. Portfolio companies of the Dutch development finance institution FMO also participated in the training held in Abidjan.

The purpose of the training was to promote gender equality and women’s economic empowerment by educating on prevention and management of SEAH. Participants were taught tools for implementing gender equality perspectives in their own operations and how to prevent gender-based violence. An important outcome was the participants’ roadmaps, which detailed specific objectives, actions and opportunities for improvements in their respective organisations. The participants suggested gender-aware approaches, products and services adapted to women and increased safety at work as possible actions.

A follow-up survey showed that the training enhanced understanding of GLI and SEAH methodologies and helped participants address organisational challenges related to GLI and SEAH.

The training is part of Swedfund’s work to increase gender equality in the portfolio companies and SDG 5, a core goal in Swedfund’s strategy.