Africa is often described as a continent rich in potential, yet much of its wealth still needs to be tapped due to systemic challenges. Among these is the underutilisation of half its population: women. Gender maximisation—the deliberate effort to harness the full potential of both men and women in economic development—is not merely a moral imperative but a financial necessity. Like an eagle attempting to fly with one wing, Africa’s economy cannot soar without the full participation of women alongside men.
The current state of gender disparities in Africa
Despite progress in recent years, gender inequality remains a significant obstacle across African societies. Women contribute approximately 40 percent to Africa’s GDP, yet they face disproportionate barriers to education, employment, and financial inclusion. For example, according to the African Development Bank (AfDB), women account for nearly 70 percent of Africa’s informal sector workforce, where pay is lower and job security minimal. Women in agriculture comprise most of the labour force but often lack access to land ownership, credit, and technology, limiting productivity.
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Leadership roles tell a similar story: women occupy less than 25 percent of parliamentary seats across Africa, and their representation in executive positions in business remains minimal. These disparities reflect a broader systemic issue—structural inequities in education, healthcare, and legal frameworks that hinder women’s ability to contribute fully to the economy.
The economic case for gender maximisation
1. Boosting GDP and productivity
Research by McKinsey Global Institute shows that advancing gender equality could add $316 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025. When women have equal access to education, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities, their contributions directly enhance economic output. For instance, countries like Rwanda have made deliberate efforts to include women in governance and business and have witnessed significant economic and social gains.
2. Enhancing business performance
Companies with diverse leadership tend to outperform their peers. Studies indicate that businesses with women in leadership roles experience better decision-making, innovation, and financial performance. In Africa’s growing private sector, leveraging women’s talents and perspectives could be a game-changer for competitiveness and sustainability.
3. Strengthening social and community development
Women are pivotal in shaping communities. Their empowerment leads to improved education, healthcare, and social stability outcomes. For example, educated women are more likely to invest in their children’s education, creating economic benefits for future generations.
“These disparities reflect a broader systemic issue—structural inequities in education, healthcare, and legal frameworks that hinder women’s ability to contribute fully to the economy.”
4. Expanding financial inclusion
According to the World Bank, only 37 percent of African women have access to formal financial services compared to 48 percent of men. Bridging this gap through targeted policies like mobile banking and microfinance could unlock significant economic potential, particularly in rural areas.
Barriers to gender maximisation
1. Cultural norms and stereotypes
Deep-seated cultural norms often limit women’s opportunities. In many communities, women are expected to prioritise domestic responsibilities over education or career aspirations, perpetuating cycles of dependency.
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2. Legal and policy constraints
Discriminatory laws and policies, such as unequal inheritance rights or restrictions on land ownership, further marginalised women. In many African countries, the legal framework does not adequately protect women from gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, or exploitation.
3. Limited access to education
Despite improvements, girls in Africa are still less likely than boys to complete secondary or tertiary education. This educational disparity reduces women’s opportunities for high-paying or leadership positions.
4. Under-representation in leadership
Women’s limited participation in decision-making roles—whether in politics, business, or community leadership—means their perspectives and needs are often overlooked in policy formulation and implementation.
Strategies for gender maximisation in Africa
1. Prioritising education for girls
Education is the foundation of empowerment. Governments and development partners must invest in programs that ensure girls attend school and complete their education. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and community awareness campaigns can help address cultural and financial barriers.
2. Promoting financial inclusion
Targeted initiatives, such as microfinance schemes and mobile banking platforms, can give women greater access to capital. Financial literacy programs should accompany these efforts to ensure women can manage and grow their resources.
3. Reforming legal frameworks
African nations must review and revise laws that perpetuate gender inequality. Equal land ownership, inheritance, and employment rights should be enshrined in legislation and effectively enforced.
4. Encouraging women in leadership
Deliberate efforts to increase women’s representation in leadership roles are essential. Quotas in political offices and corporate boards, as seen in Rwanda and South Africa, can help create a pipeline of female leaders who inspire others.
5. Leveraging technology
Digital platforms can be powerful tools for empowering women, particularly in rural areas. Online education, e-commerce, and telemedicine can help bridge gaps in access to resources and opportunities.
6. Public-private partnerships
Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and the private sector can amplify the impact of gender-focused initiatives. For example, African multinational corporations can implement inclusive hiring practices and support women-led enterprises in their supply chains.
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The eagle analogy: Why both wings are essential
An eagle needs both wings to soar to great heights. Similarly, Africa can only achieve its economic potential by engaging men and women in its development journey. Excluding women from economic and leadership opportunities is akin to grounding the eagle, stifling growth, innovation, and progress.
Gender maximisation is not about competition between genders but partnership and shared responsibility. By empowering women, Africa strengthens its collective ability to address challenges, innovate, and build a sustainable future.
Conclusion
The African economy stands at a crossroads with immense potential for growth and transformation. However, realising this potential requires addressing the systemic barriers that prevent women from contributing fully to the continent’s development. Gender maximisation is more than a moral imperative—it is a strategic necessity. By ensuring that both wings of the eagle—men and women—are equally strong, Africa can take flight, soaring to new heights of prosperity and resilience. The time to act is now.
Prof Lere Baale is the Director of Business School Netherlands International in Nigeria.
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