Why Women Must Lead in Technology Adoption

Today, technology is impacting business operations across different industries and we need to announce that it is not just a tool for men alone. A study has found that women are 50% less likely to use ICT tools than men. Relying on this study, this article emphasises the importance of women adopting technology, not just because we say so, but as an avenue to promote financial inclusion, improve business processes and close revenue leakages.

Most people assume that the digital divide is a rural problem, even women in urban centres have yet to explore the potentials that come with technology adoption. While most people will assume urban residents are in tune with modern technology, research has revealed that is not entirely true. Even Personnel in the Nigeria Civil Service at the Federal and State levels are struggling with adopting Technology–which would inadvertently improve efficiency, accountability and transparency.

A 2019 UN Women report has revealed that 74% of women in Africa dominate the informal sector and lack access to basic technology among other things. Let’s take a look at the challenges Women Entrepreneurs Face:

Challenges Women Entrepreneurs Encounter in Adopting Technology

Low Literacy Level: Research found that females who are educated are more capable of managing their businesses. Although the world expects Entrepreneurship to be a male-dominated industry, there’s an undeniable connection between Education and Entrepreneurship. It has been observed that access to conventional education increases women's ability to identify and seize opportunities and cope with business-related challenges. On the other hand, lack of access to conventional education or literacy level has impeded the success of women in MSEs especially in developing economies. Some experts have associated the relative advantage, compatibility and complexity as factors considered by users before adopting any technology.

Not Enough Time to Upgrade Skills: For women in Africa, taking care of family comes first before their own needs–while this is commendable it is not without its challenges. Paying attention to a sick family member means a shift from self to societal expectations. Women of African descent are expected to hold marriage and childbearing in high regard–even as the end goal regardless of their academic excellence. Oftentimes, women require support from the home front to succeed outside of societal expectations.

Resistance to Change: Digital adoption is new to Africa, and expectedly, there will be resistance, however, the inability to adjust to change could mean getting stuck because innovation will still take its effect whether we accept it or not. Most traditional businesses are resistant to the change for fear of disruption. There is a cost for technology–for most traditionalists adopting new technology, together with training is too expensive. Again, technology adoption makes businesses vulnerable to cyber crime–-going that part is avoidable with the paper bank, so they think.

Benefits of Women Actively Participating in Technology Adoption

Financial Empowerment: As a woman being financially independent could mean only one thing, taking charge of your life choices, and maintaining stability not just for yourself but for your family and community. As we celebrate the 2025 International Women’s Day-themed Accelerate Action, everyone must join forces to support women to attain financial independence. Studies have revealed that when women have control over household finances, they prioritise investments in their families’ health, education, and well-being. This leads to positive outcomes for their children and extended family. Like Moniepoint, Shopnest Africa is empowering women with an AI-driven solution that helps them easily set up their online store without aid from a third party–the ultimate game changer for 3x more sales. A recently conducted survey revealed that 78.6% of women experienced positive savings practices due to the adoption of technology.

Strengthened Social Impact: With financial stability women can impact their immediate community. Research has shown that women align their financial freedom with purpose. Although there are assumptions from African society that a woman with money becomes arrogant—these assumptions are founded on personal vendetta. Again, research has revealed that the desire for wealth is universal. A wealthy woman transitions through life confidently with less fear, giving women the power to shape their future while leading on an impact-first basis. When a woman is technologically inclined she drives her decision on a social impact basis while pulling other women into her wealth of experience to champion the same cause.

Enhanced Business Efficiency: Businesses thrive 3times better with the right technology to manage business processes and excesses. Despite Africans leading in the adoption of mobile money, there is still a gender gap with the adoption of technology. Leveraging technology provides access to information that empowers women to navigate tough business times.