It is an unfortunate truth that women are often left behind in developing countries, without equal access to digital connections. Often the last in a family to receive a mobile phone, bridging gender inequality is difficult when access to information and education is not possible.

According to the GSMA, there are 200 million fewer women than men connected with mobile technology.

Girls are accessing phones at much lower rates than boys – in global studies, boys are 1.5 times more likely to own a phone. “The gender gap when it comes to mobile access has a knock-on effect as it means girls are also less likely to find jobs and develop tech literacy.” (Vodafone and The Girl Effect, 2020).

Dissemination of important and life changing information is possible through a mobile connection. Sensitive topics for young women in developing countries such as birth control, mental health, sexual health and education can bypass some of the social barriers if they are delivered through mobile connections. They can access information that empowers them to make their own choices.

Also through the power of technology, women can be heard and their opinions considered in a way that was not possible before social media.

Connectivity also enables inclusion in commerce and the financial system. For many women their first mobile connection is also their first bank account, and their first form of identity.

The unconnected.org will be running programmes in 2020 with a major focus on connecting women. Particularly, supporting female entrepreneurs in emerging market is a theme we will be raising donation for on an ongoing basis. For more information, contact us.

Learn how theunconnected.org connects communities in need.