Enat Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with I Capital Africa Institute and FSD Ethiopia to support the development of Ethiopia’s first private-sector Gender Bond.

The partnership will focus on key activities required before and after the issuance of the bond, including structuring, regulatory compliance, investor engagement, launch activities, and post-issuance management in line with international standards.

As part of the agreement, the partners will also support the selection of an independent consultant to provide a Second-Party Opinion (SPO) and ensure the bond framework aligns with the International Capital Market Association (ICMA) Principles.

Enat Bank CEO Ermias Andarge (PhD) said the agreement represents a major step in moving the Gender Bond initiative from concept to implementation, noting that the initiative aims to improve access to finance for underserved communities, promote inclusive growth, and create shared value.

I Capital Africa Institute CEO Gemechu Waktola (PhD) reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the issuance of the bond according to global standards, while FSD Ethiopia CEO Hikmet Abdella highlighted the initiative’s role in advancing inclusive finance and supporting women’s economic empowerment.

The planned Gender Bond is expected to become a new financing instrument aimed at expanding opportunities for women-led businesses and promoting gender-focused investment in Ethiopia’s financial sector.