The Digital Economy, Women’s Work and Inclusion in Africa: A Pathway to African Development

Abstract

Globally, women perform two-thirds of labour but earn far less income due to lack of opportunities compared to their male counterparts in professional, technical, and managerial jobs. In Africa, women constitute over 50% of economically active population, but gender gaps in income still persist.  Africa is presently undergoing structural transformation giving way for service oriented labour instead of agriculture. The services sector which constitutes the digital economy is growing massively, providing employment opportunities. Individuals use innovative digital tools to work and transact business remotely in the comfort of their homes. This has provided opportunities for many women for businesses and employment that gives them time for childcare as such providing increased income and economic development. This paper examines the potential, opportunities, and barriers in the digital economy for women's inclusion. The paper also examines how women can leverage the digital economy to ease conflict between childcare burden and work, enhancing income and standard of living.  The paper adopts qualitative method and conducts systematic review. Findings show that opportunities in the digital economy include digital entrepreneurship and cyber security skills. The paper outlines challenges such as financial, social, and technological barriers that are limiting women’s involvement in the digital economy.