In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, digital technology significantly influences various aspects of our lives, particularly in business. However, despite the widespread availability of digital tools and platforms, a notable digital divide persists, especially among marginalized groups like women entrepreneurs in markets. Bridging this gap through digital inclusion initiatives is not only a matter of equity but also holds economic empowerment and social development significance.
Recognizing this, EfG has prioritized launching an initiative to identify women entrepreneurs in markets. Beginning in the Dar es Salaam region, this initiative will later expand to the other nine regions where EfG operates. Over 350 women will participate in collecting data on their fellow women in 47 mainland Tanzania markets. To facilitate this effort, 30 women have already undergone digital training and awareness campaigns conducted since 2023, and we plan to continue these crucial training sessions.
The Equality for Growth App, launched in early 2024, will assist in:
- Profiling women market traders in Tanzania.
- Addressing the digital gender divide gap.
- Providing access to public and private sector opportunities.
The Guest of Honor, Ms. Mary Muniwasa, Acting Director of the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange, highlighted in her speech the significant digital divide, particularly among marginalized groups such as women traders in the market. She commended EfG for its exercise in collecting and identifying women traders, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the situation and a commitment to decisive action.
These steps are crucial for enhancing the capacity of women traders in the markets and ensuring their full participation in the digital economy. Ms. Muniwasa emphasized the need for more women in informal investment listed companies and expressed her willingness to collaborate with EfG to achieve this goal.
Mr. Ludovic Utoh, Director of the WAJIBU Institute of Public Accountability, CPA (T), echoed the importance of digital inclusion for women, providing them with opportunities to expand their businesses. He urged for empowerment of women to participate in the digital revolution, emphasizing the positive impact of taxes collected by market leadership on enhancing market services.
Let’s empower women to participate in the digital revolution and ensure equitable opportunities for all market traders.