The cost of mobile data is a major barrier preventing many female entrepreneurs in developing nations from accessing the digital economy, according to a new report by the Cherie Blair Foundation. Nearly half of women entrepreneurs in low- and middle-income countries lack consistent internet access due to high costs and connectivity challenges.
The survey, which gathered responses from nearly 3,000 female business owners across 96 developing countries, highlighted that mobile internet is crucial for their businesses. These women run a variety of enterprises, including food stalls, fashion outlets, and farms, and rely on mobile phones to connect with customers, receive digital payments, and market their products.
Despite the importance of online platforms for business growth, 45% of those surveyed reported that the expense of mobile data and unstable connections prevented them from using the internet regularly. While 92% of participants owned smartphones, many had limited access to the wider internet, primarily using social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, which are often included in affordable data packages. However, these platforms are insufficient for comprehensive online business activities, with only 25% of the women utilizing e-commerce sites like Amazon or Alibaba.
“Internet connectivity is essential for digital inclusion and business success,” said Dhivya O’Connor, CEO of the Cherie Blair Foundation. “Being online allows women to reach new customers, streamline operations, and access financial services. But persistent challenges, including privacy concerns, security risks, and online harassment, continue to impede their full participation in the digital economy.”
The report also revealed significant safety concerns for women conducting business online. Over half of the participants (57%) reported facing online harassment, while 36% refrained from using their real names and 41% avoided posting photos to protect their privacy. Many women cited fears of aggressive negotiation, unwanted sexual advances, and even explicit images sent to them online.
One growing concern highlighted by O’Connor was the rollback of user protections by major social media platforms, which are often crucial for women-led businesses. As these platforms become less secure, the risk of online abuse escalates, further undermining women’s ability to operate safely and effectively in the digital space.
Further research by GSMA, an industry association that works with mobile operators, shows that women in low- and middle-income countries are 15% less likely than men to use mobile internet—a gap that grows to 30% in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Bridging this digital divide could boost GDP in developing countries by $1.3 trillion by the end of the decade, according to the report.
To close this gap, the Cherie Blair Foundation advocates for increased investment in mobile data infrastructure and a reduction in costs, alongside stronger protections against online harassment. “Technology companies must prioritize the safety of women online, ensuring they can fully participate in the digital economy without fear,” O’Connor concluded.
As digital tools become increasingly central to entrepreneurship, addressing these barriers is crucial for empowering women and fostering economic growth in developing regions.
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