Harnessing Technology for Women Entrepreneurs to Drive Intra-African Trade and Economic Empowerment by Shaka Apodoghe IMAVAH (PhD)

Harnessing Technology for Women Entrepreneurs to Drive Intra African Trade and Economic Empowerment
By
Shaka Apodoghe IMAVAH (PhD in view)
Lecturer I, Department of Library and Information Science
Federal University of Technology, Minna
Niger State, Nigeria
sa.imavah@futminna.edu.ng, +2348065558037

Abstract
Harnessing technology for women entrepreneurs represents a pivotal strategy to drive intra-African trade and economic empowerment. As Africa experiences rapid digital transformation, technology offers unprecedented opportunities for women to scale their businesses, access new markets, and contribute to economic growth. This paper explores how leveraging technological tools and platforms can empower women entrepreneurs, enhance their competitiveness, and foster intra-African trade. Technology, including digital platforms, e-commerce, and mobile applications and plays a crucial role in overcoming traditional barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to markets, financial resources, and networks. By utilizing these tools, women can expand their reach beyond local borders, engage in cross-border trade, and collaborate with other businesses across the continent. Additionally, technology facilitates financial inclusion through digital payment systems and crowdfunding, enabling women to secure funding and manage transactions efficiently. Furthermore, the integration of technology in business operations supports capacity building through online training and mentorship programs, empowering women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive market. Promoting technology adoption among women entrepreneurs not only drives economic empowerment but also fosters regional economic integration by enhancing intra-African trade. The paper further posits that leveraging technology is essential for unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs in Africa. In conclusion, by addressing existing challenges and creating an enabling environment for technological innovation, stakeholders, especially policy makers and women entrepreneurs can drive significant progress towards economic empowerment and regional trade growth, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous African economy.

Introduction
What is Technology?
Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge, tools, methods, and systems to solve problems, improve processes, or create new products and services. It encompasses a wide range of areas, including machinery, electronics, software, and methods of organization, communication, and production. Technology is integral to human development and has been a driving force behind advancements in industry, healthcare, transportation, communication, and everyday life. According to the Merriam-Webster English Dictionary, technology is “the practical application of knowledge especially in a particular area” and “a capability given by the practical application of knowledge” (Merriam-Webster). Similarly, Oxford Languages describes technology as “the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry” (Oxford Languages).

Evolution of Technology
The evolution of technology from 1900 to 2024 has been marked by rapid advancements that have transformed nearly every aspect of human life.

Early 20th Century (1900-1945)
The early 20th century saw significant industrial and scientific advancements. The invention of the airplane by the Wright brothers in 1903 and the mass production of automobiles, led by Henry Ford’s Model T in 1908, revolutionized transportation. The development of radio and the first television broadcasts in the 1920s and 1930s transformed communication and entertainment. World War II accelerated technological innovation, leading to the creation of the first computers, such as the ENIAC in 1945.

Post-War Era (1945-1970)
The post-war period witnessed the rise of consumer electronics, with the widespread adoption of televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines. The development of transistors in 1947 by Bell Labs paved the way for modern electronics, replacing vacuum tubes and enabling the miniaturization of devices. The space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union led to significant advancements in rocket technology, culminating in the moon landing in 1969.

Information Age (1970-2000)
The late 20th century was dominated by the rise of information technology. The invention of the microprocessor in 1971 by Intel revolutionized computing, making personal computers possible. The 1980s saw the emergence of the personal computer, with companies like Apple and IBM leading the way. The advent of the internet in the 1990s transformed communication, commerce, and entertainment, leading to the rise of digital culture and the Information Age.

21st Century (2000-2024)
The 21st century has seen the convergence of digital technologies, leading to the proliferation of smartphones, social media, and cloud computing. Advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy are reshaping industries and societies. The rise of big data and the Internet of Things (IoT) is driving innovation in smart cities, healthcare, and automation. In recent years, the development of technologies like 5G, quantum computing, and autonomous vehicles points to a future where technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), also known as Industry 4.0, refers to the current period of rapid technological advancement characterized by the fusion of physical, digital, and biological systems. It represents a new era of innovation and transformation, building on the foundations laid by the previous industrial revolutions. This revolution is distinguished by the widespread adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, blockchain, quantum computing, and biotechnology.

Key Characteristics of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

• Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS): The Fourth Industrial Revolution is defined by the integration of digital and physical systems. Cyber-physical systems involve the use of sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and control physical processes in real-time. These systems enable the creation of “smart” factories, cities, and infrastructure, where machines communicate and make decisions autonomously.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are central to 4IR, enabling machines to perform tasks that previously required human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and problem-solving. These technologies are transforming industries by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling the creation of new products and services.
• Internet of Things (IoT): The IoT connects physical devices to the internet, allowing them to collect and exchange data. This technology is driving the development of smart homes, connected vehicles, and automated industrial processes. The IoT also plays a critical role in supply chain management, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
• Big Data and Analytics: The explosion of data generated by digital devices and sensors has given rise to big data analytics. Organizations are leveraging this data to gain insights, improve decision-making, and personalize products and services. Big data is crucial for predictive analytics, customer relationship management, and optimizing operations.
  Robotics and Automation: Advanced robotics and automation are transforming manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors by increasing productivity and reducing the need for human labour. Robots are becoming more sophisticated, capable of performing complex tasks with precision and adaptability.
• Blockchain Technology: Blockchain is a decentralized, distributed ledger technology that enables secure, transparent, and tamper-proof transactions. It is being used in various applications, including cryptocurrencies, supply chain management, and digital identity verification.
  Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology: Advances in biotechnology are enabling the manipulation of biological systems for industrial and medical purposes. Synthetic biology, gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), and personalized medicine are revolutionizing healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.
• Quantum Computing: Quantum computing, still in its early stages, promises to revolutionize computing by solving complex problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. It has the potential to impact cryptography, material science, and drug discovery.

Impacts of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

• Economic Impact: The Fourth Industrial Revolution is reshaping industries and economies by creating new business models and disrupting traditional ones. It is driving productivity gains but also raising concerns about job displacement due to automation. New markets and opportunities are emerging, particularly in digital services, while traditional industries may face challenges in adapting to the new landscape.
• Social Impact: 4IR is changing the nature of work and the skills required by the workforce. There is a growing demand for digital literacy and specialized skills in areas like AI, data science, and cybersecurity. At the same time, there are concerns about increasing inequality and the digital divide, as not all individuals and regions have equal access to these technologies.
• Environmental Impact: The technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution have the potential to address environmental challenges by enabling more efficient use of resources, reducing waste, and supporting the transition to renewable energy. However, the environmental impact of increased digitalization, such as e-waste and energy consumption, also needs to be managed.
• Ethical and Regulatory Challenges: The rapid pace of technological change raises important ethical and regulatory questions. Issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, the impact of AI on jobs, and the ethical use of biotechnology require careful consideration and the development of appropriate frameworks to ensure that the benefits of 4IR are widely shared and its risks are mitigated.
  The Fourth Industrial Revolution represents a profound transformation of industries, economies, and societies through the integration of advanced technologies. While it offers significant opportunities for innovation and growth, it also poses challenges that require thoughtful management and collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society.

Choosing the Right Technology Skill (Now vs. Future)
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, choosing the right technology skills is crucial for staying competitive in the job market and preparing for future opportunities. The demand for technology skills is influenced by current industry needs, emerging trends, and long-term technological advancements.
Skills in Demand Now

• Data Science and Analytics: Data has become the lifeblood of modern businesses. Skills in data science, machine learning, and big data analytics are highly sought after as companies seek to leverage data for decision-making, customer insights, and predictive analytics.
• Cloud Computing: The shift towards cloud-based solutions continues to grow. Skills in cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are essential for roles in IT, development, and system architecture.
• Cybersecurity: With the increasing threat of cyber-attacks, cybersecurity skills are in high demand across all industries. Professionals with expertise in network security, ethical hacking, and information security management are critical for protecting organizational data and systems.
• Software Development and DevOps: The need for agile, scalable, and efficient software solutions makes software development a core skill. DevOps, which integrates development and operations, is crucial for improving the speed and quality of software delivery.

Skills for the Future

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are poised to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare to finance. Skills in developing and deploying AI models, natural language processing (NLP), and deep learning are increasingly important.
• Blockchain Technology: While still emerging, blockchain is gaining traction in areas like finance, supply chain management, and digital identity. Skills in blockchain development, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (DApps) are likely to be in higher demand in the future.
• Quantum Computing: Though still in its infancy, quantum computing promises to solve problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers. As the technology matures, skills in quantum algorithms, quantum cryptography, and quantum machine learning will become valuable.
• Biotechnology and Bioinformatics: Advances in biotechnology and bioinformatics are transforming healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science. Skills in gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), synthetic biology, and computational biology will be increasingly important as these fields grow.

Strategic Considerations

• Flexibility and Lifelong Learning: The rapid pace of technological change means that today’s skills may become obsolete tomorrow. Professionals must be adaptable and committed to lifelong learning, continuously updating their skill sets to remain relevant.
• Cross-Disciplinary Skills: The convergence of technologies (e.g., AI in healthcare) means that cross-disciplinary skills will be increasingly valuable. Understanding how different technologies intersect and applying them creatively to solve complex problems will set professionals apart.
• Ethical and Social Awareness: As technology impacts society more deeply, skills in ethics, privacy, and social responsibility will become important. Professionals who can navigate the ethical implications of emerging technologies will be in high demand.

Choosing the right technology skills involves a balance between current industry demands and future trends. While foundational skills like data science, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are critical now, emerging areas like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing offer opportunities for long-term growth. Staying adaptable, continuously learning, and understanding the broader impact of technology will be key to success in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is the process of identifying, creating, and pursuing opportunities to develop new products, services, or businesses. It involves the willingness to take risks, innovate, and manage resources to achieve business goals. Entrepreneurs are individuals who initiate and drive this process, often by starting new businesses or ventures that contribute to economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
Key Aspects of Entrepreneurship

• Innovation: Entrepreneurs are often seen as innovators who introduce new ideas, products, or processes to the market. This innovation can take many forms, including technological advancements, novel business models, or creative ways to address existing problems.
• Risk-Taking: Entrepreneurship involves taking risks, as there is always uncertainty in starting a new business or launching a new product. Entrepreneurs must be willing to face potential failure and navigate the challenges associated with building and growing a business.
• Opportunity Recognition: Successful entrepreneurs are skilled at recognizing opportunities in the market. They identify gaps or unmet needs and develop solutions that address these areas, creating value for customers and stakeholders.
• Resource Management: Entrepreneurship requires effective management of resources, including capital, labour, and time. Entrepreneurs must allocate these resources efficiently to maximize their chances of success.
• Value Creation: At the core of entrepreneurship is the creation of value, whether through economic value, social impact, or both. Entrepreneurs aim to deliver products or services that meet the needs and desires of their target audience, generating value in the process.

Types of Entrepreneurships

• Small Business Entrepreneurship: Involves individuals or small teams who start and run businesses that serve local markets, such as retail stores, restaurants, or service providers.
• Scalable Startup Entrepreneurship: Focuses on building high-growth companies that aim to scale rapidly, often in technology or innovative sectors. These startups often seek external funding from venture capitalists to fuel their growth.
• Social Entrepreneurship: Combines business goals with social impact, aiming to address societal challenges through innovative solutions. Social entrepreneurs prioritize positive social change alongside financial sustainability.
• Corporate Entrepreneurship (Intrapreneurship): Occurs within established companies, where employees act as entrepreneurs to develop new products, services, or processes that contribute to the company’s growth and innovation.

Importance of Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is a driving force behind economic development, job creation, and innovation. Entrepreneurs play a critical role in bringing new ideas to life, disrupting traditional industries, and improving the quality of life through new products and services.
Their ability to take risks and push boundaries contributes to the dynamism and competitiveness of economies.
Women in Entrepreneurship in Africa
Women in entrepreneurship in Africa have increasingly become a significant force driving economic growth, innovation, and social change across the continent. Despite facing numerous challenges, African women entrepreneurs are making remarkable strides in various sectors, from agriculture and retail to technology and manufacturing.
Key Trends and Statistics

• High Entrepreneurial Activity: Africa has one of the highest rates of female entrepreneurship in the world. According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2020/2021 report, women in Africa are more likely to start businesses than women in any other region, with about 26% of women involved in entrepreneurial activities compared to the global average of 10%.
• Contribution to the Economy: Female-owned businesses contribute significantly to the African economy. Women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for a substantial share of employment, particularly in sectors like agriculture, retail, and services. For instance, in sub-Saharan Africa, women make up 58% of the continent’s self-employed population, often driving the informal sector, which constitutes a large part of many African economies.
• Challenges Faced: Despite their high levels of participation, African women entrepreneurs face numerous barriers, including limited access to finance, education, and markets. The World Bank notes that women in Africa often struggle to secure funding, with a gender financing gap estimated at $42 billion for women-owned SMEs across the continent. Additionally, cultural norms, legal constraints, and limited access to networks and mentorship further hinder their entrepreneurial growth.
• Support and Initiatives: There are growing efforts to support women entrepreneurs in Africa. Initiatives such as the African Women Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP), SheTrades, and the African Development Bank’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) aim to provide funding, training, and networking opportunities to help women overcome the challenges they face. These programs have helped many women scale their businesses and contribute more effectively to economic development.
• Impact of Technology: The rise of digital technology is playing a crucial role in empowering women entrepreneurs in Africa. Mobile banking, e-commerce platforms, and digital marketing tools are providing new opportunities for women to start and grow their businesses, especially in remote and underserved areas. For example, in Kenya, platforms like M-Pesa have revolutionized access to financial services, enabling women entrepreneurs to manage transactions and grow their businesses more efficiently.

Women in entrepreneurship in Africa are vital contributors to the continent’s economic development, despite facing significant challenges. With increasing support from governments, international organizations, and the private sector, the future for women entrepreneurs in Africa looks promising. Continued efforts to address the barriers they face and to promote gender equality in entrepreneurship will be key to unlocking the full potential of women-led businesses across Africa.

Intra African Trade
Intra-African trade refers to the exchange of goods and services between countries within the African continent. Historically, trade within Africa has been limited compared to trade with external partners, but recent initiatives aim to increase economic integration and boost trade among African nations.

Current State of Intra-African Trade

• Low Trade Levels: Intra-African trade remains relatively low compared to other regions of the world. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), intra-African trade accounted for only 15.4% of Africa’s total trade in 2021. This is significantly lower than intra-regional trade in Europe (68%) and Asia (59%) .
• Economic Disparities: The disparity in economic size and development levels among African countries has been a key factor limiting intra-African trade. Countries with more developed industrial bases, like South Africa and Nigeria, dominate trade, while smaller economies often struggle to participate fully.
• Barriers to Trade: Several barriers hinder intra-African trade, including inadequate infrastructure, high tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and complex customs procedures. Additionally, political instability and a lack of regional coordination further complicate cross-border trade.

Efforts to Enhance Intra-African Trade

• African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): The AfCFTA, which came into effect on January 1, 2021, is a landmark agreement aimed at creating the largest free trade area in the world by the number of participating countries. The AfCFTA seeks to increase intra-African trade by reducing tariffs, simplifying customs procedures, and addressing non-tariff barriers. It covers a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion .
• Regional Economic Communities (RECs): Africa’s various RECs, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and East African Community (EAC), have been working to enhance regional integration. These communities aim to facilitate trade by harmonizing policies, reducing tariffs, and improving infrastructure.
• Infrastructure Development: Improving transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure is critical to boosting intra-African trade. Initiatives such as the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) focus on addressing these infrastructure gaps by building roads, railways, ports, and energy networks across the continent.
• Diversification of Exports: African countries are working to diversify their economies and reduce dependence on raw material exports. By focusing on industrialization and value-added production, countries can create more tradable goods and services that can be exchanged within the continent.

Future Outlook

The successful implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to significantly boost intra-African trade by creating a more integrated and competitive African market. According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the AfCFTA could increase intra-African trade by over 50% by 2030, particularly in manufacturing, services, and agriculture.
Intra-African trade is essential for the continent’s economic growth and development. While currently underdeveloped, initiatives like the AfCFTA and infrastructure investments hold the potential to transform Africa into a more integrated and economically vibrant region. Continued efforts to remove trade barriers, improve infrastructure, and promote industrialization will be crucial to realizing the full benefits of intra-African trade.

Economic Empowerment in the Context of African Women
Economic empowerment refers to the process by which individuals or groups gain the ability and agency to make economic decisions, access resources, and participate fully in economic activities, thereby improving their financial independence, well-being, and overall quality of life. In the context of African women, economic empowerment involves enhancing their access to education, employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, and financial services, as well as addressing structural barriers that limit their participation in the economy.

Key Aspects of Economic Empowerment for African Women

• Access to Education and Skills Development: Education is a foundational element of economic empowerment. For African women, increasing access to quality education and vocational training is crucial for improving their economic prospects. According to UNESCO, while gender gaps in primary education have narrowed, significant disparities remain in secondary and tertiary education, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Only about 39% of girls complete lower secondary education, limiting their access to higher-paying jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Labor Force Participation: African women play a significant role in the labour force, particularly in agriculture and the informal sector. However, they are often concentrated in low-paying, informal jobs with little job security or benefits. According to the World Bank, women make up about 50% of the agricultural labour force in sub-Saharan Africa, yet they often lack access to resources such as land, credit, and technology, which limits their productivity and income.
• Entrepreneurship and Access to Finance: Entrepreneurship is a key pathway to economic empowerment for African women. However, access to finance remains a major barrier. Women-owned businesses in Africa face a $42 billion financing gap, making it difficult for them to start or scale their businesses. Despite these challenges, women in Africa are highly entrepreneurial, with the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reporting that women in sub-Saharan Africa have the highest entrepreneurship rate in the world, with about 26% of women engaged in early-stage entrepreneurial activity.
• Legal and Policy Frameworks: Legal and policy barriers often hinder the economic empowerment of African women. In many African countries, discriminatory laws regarding land ownership, inheritance, and marital rights limit women’s ability to own property, access credit, and make autonomous economic decisions. Efforts to reform these laws and implement gender-sensitive policies are critical to advancing women’s economic empowerment.
• Social Norms and Gender Roles: Deeply entrenched social norms and gender roles often restrict African women’s economic participation. Cultural expectations regarding women’s roles in the household and society can limit their ability to work outside the home or pursue entrepreneurial activities. Changing these norms through advocacy, education, and community engagement is essential for promoting gender equality in the economy.

Impact and Importance
Economic empowerment of African women has far-reaching benefits, not only for the women themselves but also for their families, communities, and economies. Empowered women are more likely to invest in their children’s education and health, leading to intergenerational benefits. Additionally, closing the gender gap in economic participation could significantly boost Africa’s GDP. According to a McKinsey Global Institute report, achieving gender parity in the workforce could add $316 billion to sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP by 2025.
Challenges and Opportunities

• Challenges: Despite progress, African women still face significant barriers to economic empowerment, including limited access to education, financial resources, and markets, as well as legal and cultural constraints.
• Opportunities: There are growing efforts to support the economic empowerment of African women through initiatives such as the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) by the African Development Bank, and various grassroots movements focused on women’s rights and empowerment.

Economic empowerment is essential for improving the livelihoods and status of African women. By addressing the barriers they face and providing access to education, finance, and supportive policies, African women can fully participate in and contribute to the continent’s economic growth and development.

Women Entrepreneurs in Africa: Harnessing Technology to Drive Intra-African Trade and Economic Empowerment
Women entrepreneurs in Africa are increasingly recognizing the transformative potential of technology in driving business growth, expanding market reach, and fostering economic empowerment. By leveraging digital tools and platforms, they can overcome traditional barriers to trade, enhance productivity, and participate more effectively in intra-African trade.

1. Expanding Market Access through E-Commerce
   Technology enables women entrepreneurs to access wider markets beyond their local communities. E-commerce platforms like Jumia, Konga, and Kilimall allow women to sell their products and services across the continent, reaching customers in different countries. This not only increases sales opportunities but also helps to diversify income streams. According to the International Trade Centre, the rise of digital trade could potentially add $3.7 trillion to the global economy by 2025, with African women entrepreneurs positioned to benefit significantly from this growth.
2. Enhancing Financial Inclusion through Digital Finance
   Access to finance is a major challenge for women entrepreneurs in Africa. However, digital finance solutions such as mobile banking, digital wallets, and fintech services are bridging this gap. Platforms like M-Pesa in Kenya and EcoCash in Zimbabwe allow women to perform transactions, receive payments, and access microloans without the need for traditional banking infrastructure.
   The World Bank reports that digital financial services have already helped millions of women entrepreneurs in Africa gain financial independence and expand their businesses.
3. Leveraging Social Media for Marketing and Networking
   Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn provide powerful tools for women entrepreneurs to market their products, engage with customers, and build business networks. These platforms enable cost-effective marketing strategies, allowing entrepreneurs to showcase their offerings to a broader audience. Additionally, online communities and networks provide opportunities for mentorship, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, which are essential for business growth and expansion into new markets.
4. Improving Efficiency through Digital Tools and Automation
   Digital tools and software can help women entrepreneurs streamline their operations, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. For instance, inventory management systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and automated accounting tools enable entrepreneurs to manage their businesses more effectively. This is particularly important for scaling operations and managing cross-border trade, where efficiency and accuracy are critical.
5. Participating in Regional Supply Chains via Digital Platforms
   Digital platforms and marketplaces facilitate the integration of women-owned businesses into regional supply chains. By connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and buyers across different African countries, these platforms enable women entrepreneurs to participate in intra-African trade more easily. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) emphasizes the role of digital platforms in promoting trade integration, and women entrepreneurs can leverage these tools to access new opportunities within the continental market.
6. Building Capacity through Online Education and Training
   Technology also provides access to online education and training resources, enabling women entrepreneurs to build their capacity and acquire new skills. Online courses, webinars, and e-learning platforms offer training in areas such as digital marketing, financial management, and export readiness, which are essential for participating in intra-African trade. For example, initiatives like SheTrades and the African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative (AWEC) provide tailored training programs to empower women entrepreneurs with the skills needed to succeed in the digital economy.

Conclusion
Technology is a powerful enabler for women entrepreneurs in Africa, offering tools and platforms that can help them overcome traditional barriers and drive economic empowerment. By embracing digital technologies, women can expand their market reach, access finance, improve operational efficiency, and actively participate in intra-African trade. As Africa continues to integrate economically, leveraging technology will be key to unlocking the full potential of women entrepreneurs across the continent.

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