Naa Sika Is WSA Winner 2021

Salzburg, 7th February 2022. Modern technology combined with a social cause and smart content not only solves problems, but it also enhances equality, information access and inclusion. The WSA Winners 2021 provide a meaningful selection of worldwide content-driven applications contributing to the achievement of the UN SDGs – 40 solutions from 29 countries have been awarded by an international jury.

A Global Recognition

Given that WSA had nominations from almost 100 UN member states, there were an estimated 8,000 projects and products under consideration. Naa Sika was chosen to be among the 40 most outstanding digital solutions globally.

This recognition places Naa Sika among the world's leading digital innovations that are making a meaningful impact on society and contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

About the World Summit Awards

WSA was founded in 2003 by Austria in the framework of the UN World Summit on Information Society. WSA is a global initiative recognizing local digital content contributing to the achievement of the UN SDGs.

WSA reaches digital entrepreneurs in 187 countries worldwide and provides a unique platform for everyone interested in purpose-driven digital innovation. Through close cooperation with the United Nations agencies and strategic alignment with the UN SDGs, the WSA is a globally recognized quality seal for digital innovation.

The WSA Evaluation Process

According to WSA Chairman Prof. Peter A. Bruck, "The WSA Winners combine two major focus points - the commitment to the UN SDGs and solving societies issues with smart content application. Evaluated by an international expert Jury in 2 stages – a multi-stakeholder college unique in terms of diversity and background – the 40 WSA Winners 2021 have been tried for sustainability, aim, technical and strategic finesse."

The evaluation process is rigorous and democratic, ensuring that only the most impactful and innovative solutions are recognized. As WSA Grand Jury Member Sachi Wickramage from Australia noted, "WSA Grand Jury process is the most democratic evaluation mechanism that is out there to compare and contrast Global Innovations representing all UN Member Countries."

"This year's challenges show more than ever how much digital means can offer progress and solutions. This year's WSA Winners present a wonderful showcase of purpose-driven innovation and entrepreneurship." — Prof. Peter A. Bruck, WSA Chairman

Naa Sika's Category: Inclusion and Empowerment

Naa Sika was recognized in the Inclusion and Empowerment category, which celebrates digital solutions that promote equality, access, and empowerment for underserved communities. This category aligns perfectly with our mission to provide financial services to Africa's informal economy.

Our platform directly addresses several UN SDGs, including:

• ✓ SDG 1 (No Poverty): Providing financial tools to help people build savings and manage money
• ✓ SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Supporting small businesses and informal sector workers
• ✓ SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Making financial services accessible to those excluded from traditional banking
• ✓ SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Collaborating with partners to achieve sustainable development

The WSA Global Congress 2022

Naa Sika was recognized at the WSA Global Congress 2022, held from March 22-24, 2022. In front of an international audience, Naa Sika received the Award in the Inclusion and Empowerment category.

The WSA Global Congress is an international networking and learning event for those interested in using digital technology to achieve the UN SDGs. The agenda included interaction and inspiration, hands-on workshops, business blind dates, and inspiring keynotes, bringing together the global and multi-stakeholder network of WSA.

What This Award Means

The WSA recognition validates Naa Sika's approach to financial inclusion and our commitment to using technology to solve real-world problems. As noted by WSA Grand Jury Member Sachi Wickramage:

"In the wake of major social and political changes over the current pandemic, social entrepreneurs and digital innovators around the globe are taking bold steps to safeguard diversity, equity, and inclusion. Being a Member of the WSA Grand Jury, I have witnessed this first-hand."

This award recognizes that Naa Sika is part of a global movement of purpose-driven innovators working to create a more inclusive and equitable world through technology.

Looking Forward

The WSA Winner 2021 recognition is both an honor and a responsibility. It motivates us to continue innovating and expanding our impact, ensuring that our digital financial services reach more people across Africa and contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

We're grateful to WSA for this recognition and to all our users, partners, and team members who have made this achievement possible. This award reinforces our commitment to building solutions that truly make a difference in people's lives.