Recent research indicates that the expense of mobile data packages is a significant barrier for female entrepreneurs in developing nations. Female business owners understand the importance of social media marketing but face challenges in accessing the internet due to cost and connection problems. Close to 3,000 female entrepreneurs from 96 developing countries contributed to a report by the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, outlining the hurdles women face in the digital economy. These entrepreneurs, who run businesses such as food outlets, fashion businesses, and farms, use their phones for customer engagement, digital payments, and promotion.
Dhivya O’Connnor, CEO of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, emphasized the importance of internet connectivity for digital inclusion and business success, as it allows women to reach customers, streamline operations, and access financial services. However, persistent challenges, including privacy concerns, security risks, and online harassment, continue to impede women’s full participation. O’Connor warned that without proper support, those struggling to adapt to the evolving digital landscape risk being left behind.
Despite 92% of surveyed women owning smartphones, internet access is often limited. The majority use platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, which are frequently included in affordable data packages. Only about a quarter of the women use e-commerce platforms such as Amazon or Alibaba. According to We Are Social’s research on global digital trends, 11 of the 20 countries where internet is least affordable are located in sub-Saharan Africa.
Online safety is another concern for women selling their products online, with 57% facing harassment, and many using measures to maintain their privacy, such as not using their names or posting photos. GSMA research also reveals that women in low- and middle-income countries are 15% less likely to use mobile internet than men, with the disparity reaching up to a third in South Asia and Africa. Closing this gender gap could potentially contribute $1.3tn to the GDP of developing countries by the end of the decade.
The report highlights the need for developing countries to invest in mobile data networks to enhance connectivity and reduce costs, as well as for technology companies to implement robust measures to protect women from online harassment.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2025/mar/20/cost-data-developing-world-digital-women-in-business-report-female-entrepreneurs-internet-access
