September 19, 2025

In communities grappling with economic uncertainty, young entrepreneurs often face challenges that go beyond access to finance or business skills. Unaddressed stress, trauma, and self-doubt can quietly limit their ability to seize opportunities and grow their enterprises. Recognizing this, the MESMER Programme, a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and First Consult (FC), integrated a Psychosocial Support (PSS) component as part of its commitment to strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This intervention, implemented in collaboration with Aha Psychological Services, set out to restore mental well-being, an essential first step in building resilience and paving the way toward bankability. Impact Across Six Regions The first phase of the PSS component has now concluded, leaving a profound impact. More than 16,000 enterprises, both informal and formal—were reached across six regions of Ethiopia, particularly in conflict-affected areas where trauma had disrupted lives and livelihoods. Through counseling sessions, group workshops, and tailored support, enterprise owners were able to: For many, this intervention was the critical foundation needed to reimagine what sustainable growth and financial independence could look like. Celebrating Strength and Resilience Closing ceremonies in Dessie, Mekelle, and Nekemte marked the end of phase one, but the stories of determination shared by participants reflect that this is only the beginning. Entrepreneurs spoke of renewed hope, fresh vision, and the confidence to pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. Their journeys highlight a powerful truth: mental wellness is not a luxury, it is a prerequisite for economic resilience. By addressing the invisible barriers of stress and trauma, the PSS component is helping enterprise owners unlock their full potential and move steadily along the pathway to bankability. Looking Ahead As MESMER moves into its next phase, the lessons learned from PSS interventions will continue to inform how support is delivered. The integration of psychosocial well-being into enterprise development demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, recognizing that sustainable economic growth is rooted in both financial and emotional resilience. The stories emerging from this first phase stand as a testament to the strength of Ethiopia’s entrepreneurs and the transformative impact of holistic support systems.

Nebil Kellow, Managing Director of FC, participated as a panellist at the African Climate Summit II, contributing to the discussion on Green Skills for a Just and Equitable Climate Transition. Speaking on the panel, Kellow emphasized the urgent need to upskill Africa’s workforce for emerging green jobs, integrate climate education at all levels of learning, and address the gender gap, with only one in three new green jobs currently going to women. The session highlighted that a just transition cannot be achieved in isolation. Kellow called for deeper collaboration between financiers, governments, the private sector, and development partners to build an inclusive green economy. As the continent prepares for COP30, the panel underlined that investing in human capital is not only an environmental priority, but also a strategic economic necessity for Africa’s future.