Bridging the disproportionate lag in access to fixed internet in Ethiopia at 6% less for women compared to their counterparts currently at 20%, not only composes a hindrance to realizing the SDGs but also broadens the inclusive participation in sustainable development. This eliminates 61% of Women In Businesses from contributing to sustainable economic growth majorly due to limited access to information and aids from the formal economy such as; access to digital networks, training and funding in form of loans.
Despite the new wave of digital technology, which has seen the Council of Ministers recently accept a new draft proclamation to be ratified by the parliament which will see the transition from manual to electronic shortened to one year in the draft proclamation. The Ethiopian Public Procurement and Property Authority (PPPA) in a bid to enhance efficiency and transparency rolled out an electronic government procurement ( EGP) . In spite of the reduction in; risks of corruption through enhancing transparency during the public procurement processes, minimizing conflicts of interest and limiting individual conflicts interest. Ethiopia still ranks the 107 th out of the 112 countries in The Economist’s Women’s Economic Opportunity Index. Women Led Businesses don’t have suitable ground for investment to flourish competitively. The undue collateral requirements restrain women’s further from access to loans from commercial banks despite the existence of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Development Project (WEDP), with a capacity of $50 million investment lending operation premeditated to address the significant restrictions in sustainable economic growth.
Navigating the challenges head on is key to attaining greater good by addressing;
Strengthening the registration of more women for training programs and availing it
in accessible locations, during convenient hours to attract busy women and with
high focus on the quality skills being passed on.
Collaboratively engaging husbands, partners and male family members to ensure that their backing and approval is guaranteed. Connecting women with reliable male mentors and role models in other sectors can assist them evolve into more lucrative businesses.
Transforming the lenders mind set to; flexible, responsive with long-term technical after service is vital grounds for sustainable changes to be attained.
Access to Information and collaborative participation of both women and men in bridging the gap created by scarcity of fixed internet accessibility and usage amidst the prevailing resources and opportunities posed by the new wave in technology is critical for realization of SDGs and economy development.
