Women in Africa continue to face significant barriers that hinder their full participation in the economy. Despite being a sizable portion of the population, structural obstacles prevent women from engaging fully in official economic activities. On this International Women’s Day, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges women face as well as the areas where they have excelled.
According to the Global Gender Gap Report by the World Economic Forum, Sub-Saharan Africa has made progress in closing the gender gap, with an overall increase of +5.6 percentage points since 2006. While 21 out of 35 economies in the region are in the top 100, Namibia stands out as a top-ten performer. However, there is still a significant disparity between the best and worst-performing countries, with a 22.8 percentage point difference.
The report highlights that participation and opportunity for women in Sub-Saharan Africa stands at 68.1%, showing progress in labor force participation and advancements in technical and professional roles. Women’s engagement in the workforce has a substantial impact on economic growth, with studies indicating that reducing gender inequalities in labor force participation can boost GDP.
In economies where agriculture and informal trading are prevalent, providing women with better access to education, financing, and technology can enhance productivity. Countries like Rwanda, where women hold key roles in business and governance, demonstrate how gender inclusion can drive economic growth and reduce poverty.
Women’s economic participation not only benefits the individual but also the community as a whole. When women earn money, they reinvest up to 90% of it back into their families and communities, leading to improved access to education, healthcare, and higher living standards. Initiatives like financial inclusion, such as access to bank accounts, mobile banking, and microloans, enable women to start businesses and achieve financial independence, further accelerating economic development.
The Global Gender Gap Report lists the top ten African countries with the highest index for women’s economic participation and opportunity. Liberia, Botswana, and Eswatini top the list, showcasing their commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. These countries serve as examples of how creating opportunities for women in the economy can lead to sustainable growth and development.
