In a world where societies are increasingly benefiting from new waves of
technological progress and transitioning towards a digital economy, women’s empowerment remains a global priority. In many Sub-Saharan
African countries, high levels of women’s economic participation often imply “quantity over quality”, reflecting their “engagement” in vulnerable employment. Women’s economic emergence is crucial to ensuring human rights and sustainable development.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Internet and ICT advancement on vulnerable female employment. Digitalization represents a powerful tool for empowering women through better integration into local and international markets, particularly through digital platforms. The study explores how digital entrepreneurship can empower women in lower-income Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries economically, transitioning them from vulnerable employment to more secure and sustainable economic activities.
Design/Methodology/Approach:
The empirical investigation aims to determine the relationship between digitalization and vulnerable female employment in lower-income SSA countries, utilizing a panel ARDL approach to distinguish between short- and long-run effects. This methodology allows for an exploration of how digital platforms can empower women.
Findings
Evidence indicates that while combined, Internet and ICT advancement estimators (Internet penetration, mobile phone ownership, and fixed broadband) exhibit weak predictive power. Empirical findings have demonstrated that women in vulnerable employment are most likely to be positively impacted by mobile technology. These findings suggest that digital entrepreneurship can provide economic agency to women in these regions.
Originality/value
This study highlights the importance of digitalization and its potential to empower women economically in Sub-Saharan Africa. It recommends that policymakers formulate policies to create a supportive environment for digital entrepreneurship; to raise awareness of digital opportunities; and to accelerate ICT development. By doing so, women can gain better access to and benefit more effectively from the digital economy, thereby reducing their economic vulnerability.