Women entrepreneurs in Ghana need more than just smartphones and internet connectivity to achieve sustainable business growth, according to MTN Ghana. Access to finance, digital skills, business support, and financial protection are critical for converting technology into tangible business expansion. Digital connectivity alone serves only as an initial step for female-led enterprises.
Ms. Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer of MTN Ghana, explained that many women entrepreneurs already use phones for operations like communicating with suppliers and receiving payments. However, these businesses remain vulnerable to setbacks that can quickly undermine their stability. A family emergency or loss of stock can deplete savings and weaken operations, especially for women balancing entrepreneurship with household responsibilities. Such challenges highlight the need for comprehensive support beyond basic digital tools.
This insight fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative regarding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and financial inclusion. While digital penetration has increased, the ability to translate digital access into higher revenues or stronger cash flows remains a challenge. For women-owned businesses, effective use of digital platforms must be matched with access to capital, markets, and business knowledge. This ensures resilience against unexpected economic shocks and fosters long-term growth.
Ms. Kwofie stated that a woman may have a smartphone and internet access, but she also needs the tools, knowledge, and support. These elements help turn ambition into sustainable growth. She further illustrated that when a woman's business struggles, school fees become uncertain and household expenses become difficult. This shows the profound impact beyond just business losses.
The implications are significant for policy makers and financial institutions aiming to boost Ghana's economy through entrepreneurship. Supporting women to overcome these barriers is vital not only for individual businesses but also for households, communities, and the wider economy. When women thrive, communities grow, families become more secure, and children gain greater opportunities. This creates jobs and benefits the national economy. Decision-makers must focus on integrated support systems that combine digital literacy with financial services and business mentorship.
MTN Ghana's Adwuma platform aims to address some of these needs by integrating digital skills, tools, business support, and protection for women entrepreneurs. The Executive Women Network (EWN) also plays a role, having impacted over 10,000 people through mentoring and capacity building. However, EWN Chairperson Ms. Janet Sunkwa-Mills noted that sustainable funding and sponsorship remain major constraints for expanding their programmes. Stronger corporate partnerships are needed as EWN enters its next phase of growth.
The discussions at the EWN 10th Anniversary Conference and Expo in Accra underscore a crucial shift in the support paradigm for women entrepreneurs. The focus is moving from merely connecting them to ensuring digital access translates into resilient businesses. This includes increased income, job creation, and long-term economic growth. Inclusive leadership, as highlighted by MTN Ghana CEO Mr. Stephen Blewett, is essential for organizations and economies to perform better. MTN Ghana remains committed to creating opportunities for women to lead and contribute to Ghana’s digital and economic transformation.