On International Women’s Day 2025, attention is drawn to the critical role of women in transforming economies and societies. However, progress towards women's full economic participation remains slow and uneven, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In Eastern and Southern Africa, statistics show that a woman or girl is only 41% likely to be enrolled in secondary education, with many facing early pregnancies and earning less than their male counterparts. The World Bank emphasizes that investing in women's economic empowerment can significantly impact global GDP. "Our goal is to enable more women to access quality jobs, capital, and economic opportunities," states the World Bank.
Efforts are underway across Eastern and Southern Africa to address these challenges. In Mozambique, the "Eu Sou Capaz" program supports young girls staying in school through incentives like school uniforms and bicycles. It has assisted nearly half a million girls so far.
In Zambia, the Girls’ Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihoods (GEWEL) Project has provided grants for women like Fitness Kalumbi to start businesses. The project has financed cash transfers to over one million households.
Access to energy also plays a crucial role. Tanzania's Rural Electrification Expansion Program (TREEP), supported by IDA financing, aids communities with solar-powered tools improving local industries' efficiency.
Digital inclusion initiatives such as Malawi Digital Foundations Project are essential for empowering women with digital skills necessary for future job markets. This project has trained over 19,000 youth in digital skills since its inception.
The World Bank continues supporting countries in ensuring individuals and businesses become digitally enabled by 2030 through investments in infrastructure and skills development.