Young women catalysts for economic transformation in Africa
THE potential of young women in Africa to contribute significantly to the continent’s economic growth is increasingly recognised as a critical driver for sustainable development.
According to a report commissioned by the Mastercard Foundation and the Africa Leadership and Dialogue Institute (ALADI), empowering young women could add an impressive 287 billion US dollars to Africa’s GDP by 2030.
This potential underscores the urgent need for investment in programmes and policies that specifically target young women, as they represent a vital segment of the workforce capable of driving economic transformation across various sectors.
One of the key factors highlighted in the report is the systemic barriers that young women face, which often limits their access to education, financial resources and professional opportunities.
These barriers not only hinder individual growth but also stifle broader economic development. To address these challenges, the report advocates for immediate action to improve access to childcare, education and gender-inclusive policies. By dismantling these obstacles, countries can unleash the full potential of young women, fostering a more equitable and productive society.
Moreover, the report identifies specific sectors such as agriculture, information and communication technology (ICT) and retail as high-potential areas for female employment.
By directing initiatives like apprenticeships and skills training toward these sectors, young women can significantly contribute to innovation and growth.
Empowering young women to participate actively in these industries not only enhances their individual economic standing but also stimulates job creation and economic diversification within their communities. Young women in Africa represent a critical asset for the continent’s economic growth, with their potential being increasingly recognised in various sectors.
According to the report, investing in young women not only addresses gender disparities but also has a substantial impact on economic productivity. With young women making up a significant portion of the population, their full participation in the workforce is essential to harnessing the demographic dividend that Africa offers.
This demographic shift presents a unique opportunity to drive economic innovation, creativity and resilience in various sectors. One of the most compelling arguments for empowering young women is the direct correlation between their economic participation and poverty alleviation.
Research shows that when women earn an income, they reinvest a significant portion of it back into their families and communities, fostering better health, education and overall well-being.
According to the United Nations, women reinvest 90 per cent of their income into their families, compared to 30-40 per cent by men. This reinvestment not only improves household standards of living but also contributes to the broader economic stability of nations.
By facilitating access to education, job training and financial resources, African nations can unlock the potential of young women, thereby accelerating poverty reduction and social development.
According to the African Development Bank, investing in women’s education and employment can lead to a significant boost in GDP across African nations. For instance, the bank estimates that closing the gender gap in labour force participation could add $300 billion to Africa’s economy by 2025.
Investing in women’s education and employment is not only a matter of social justice but also a strategic economic imperative for African nations.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) emphasises that closing the gender gap in labour force participation could yield an impressive 300 billion US dollars boost to Africa’s economy by 2025. This substantial financial incentive underscores the necessity for governments and stakeholders to prioritise policies and initiatives that enhance women’s access to quality education and employment opportunities.
By fostering an inclusive labor market, African countries can tap into a vast reservoir of untapped potential, driving economic growth and innovation. Furthermore, the benefits of investing in women’s education extend beyond immediate economic gains.
Educated women are more likely to participate in the labour market, make informed financial decisions and contribute positively to their families and communities.
For instance, the World Bank notes that women’s education significantly correlates with improved child health and education outcomes, creating a virtuous cycle of development. This ripple effect can lead to long-term societal benefits, as educated women become empowered citizens who advocate for their rights and contribute to civic engagement, ultimately enhancing the quality of governance and public policy.
In addition, women’s increased participation in the workforce can contribute to diversifying the economy. As women enter sectors traditionally dominated by men, such as technology, engineering and entrepreneurship, they bring unique perspectives and innovations that can help drive progress.
The United Nations has highlighted that women’s entrepreneurship is a powerful engine for economic growth, providing job opportunities and fostering creativity. Supporting women-led businesses through access to financing, mentorship and training can enhance their contributions to local and national economies, ultimately making them more resilient to economic shocks.
Therefore, fostering an environment conducive to women’s empowerment can also have positive implications for peace and stability. Studies show that gender equality is closely linked to conflict resolution and community cohesion. When women are actively involved in economic activities, they are more likely to engage in peacebuilding initiatives and community development projects.
The AfDB reports that inclusive economic policies that address gender disparities can lead to more peaceful societies, as women’s empowerment is correlated with reduced violence and improved social cohesion.
