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Cowrywise, a leading fintech company based in Lagos, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to creating meaningful change through targeted Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
From revamping healthcare facilities to pioneering financial literacy programs, Cowrywise has positioned itself as a key player in the socioeconomic development of Lagos communities.
Revitalizing healthcare in Sagbokoji Island
In 2019, Cowrywise partnered with a youth-led volunteer organization, CHSS (now Pishon Health), to rebuild a health center and provide a boat ambulance for the residents of Sagbokoji, a remote island in Amuwo-Odofin.
Through Cowrywise’s Savings Circles feature, funds were raised to support this life-saving project. The initiative ensured easier access to quality healthcare for the underserved community.
Reflecting on the impact of this collaboration, a health policy advocate, Lauretta Hamza remarked, “The first time I visited Sagbokoji, I realized how challenging it was to provide healthcare in rural communities. Cowrywise Circles helped us secure the funding we needed to make a real difference.”
Empowering youth through financial literacy and internships
Cowrywise has also prioritised empowering the next generation through financial education and skills development.
In 2021, the company launched its Ambassadors Internship Program, welcoming student leaders from Nigerian universities to gain hands-on experience in growth marketing and content creation. Alumni like Oluchukwu Chiadika and Maryann Onuoha have gone on to thrive as industry professionals, embodying the program’s success.
A campus ambassador from Lagos State University of Technology, Oluwapelumi Simeon shared how the program reshaped his understanding of finance.
“Thanks to the finance teachings from the Ambassadors’ community, I’ve been able to distill complex concepts and even impress my friends with my knowledge,” Simeon said.
Driving financial inclusion for women traders, and financial literacy to grassroots communities
In October 2024, Cowrywise was one of three financial institutions that collaborated with the Lagos State Government to provide loans and financial literacy training to indigent women traders.
A Cowrywise representative, Mr. Oyeyinka Oyekan, emphasized that these efforts align with the company’s mission to make financial services accessible to underserved communities. The initiative aimed to boost the business capital of these traders while equipping them with essential skills in budgeting and saving.
Cowrywise’s #HCDProject has been a cornerstone of its corporate social responsibility efforts. In collaboration with Lagos State’s SDG Office, the company conducted financial literacy workshops in areas like Iwaya and Ifako-Ijaye, empowering women with skills in budgeting, saving, and investing.
In November 2024, the company shared an update on the project, noting its continued efforts in Ifako-Ijaye, where financial literacy training was extended to even more women.
A game changer for education
One of Cowrywise’s most impactful projects in 2024 was the inaugural Cowrywise Super Cup, a corporate football tournament designed to raise ₦1 billion for underprivileged children’s education. Held at Local Government Primary School in Ikeja, the event united corporations and football fans under the banner of #FootballForGood.
Speaking at the event, Cowrywise CEO, Razaq Ahmed announced the launch of the Cowrywise Endowment Fund, with a seed target of ₦1 billion to support low-income students.
“We believe in the transformative power of education,” Ahmed said. “This fund is a testament to our commitment to providing every child with the opportunity to achieve their dreams.”
The initiative changed the lives of many young people, including Franklin Ayodeji from Ikorodu, whose scholarship paved the way for his academic success and pursuit of a career in science.
Transforming Lagos, one initiative at a time
From renovating a football pitch for Ikeja Primary School to using innovative savings products like Football Circles, which rewards fans for saving based on their team’s performance, Cowrywise continues to blend creativity and impact in its CSR programs.
Through these initiatives, Cowrywise has solidified its reputation as a socially conscious organization committed to Lagos’ growth and prosperity. Its CSR journey not only uplifts communities but also sets an example for how businesses can drive meaningful change.