Dr Matiur Rahman

The digital divide, the gap between those with access to and who can effectively utilise information and communication technologies (ICTs), remains a significant global challenge. A vital aspect of this divide is the mobile gender gap, which refers to the disparity in mobile phone ownership and internet usage between men and women. The GSMA's (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) "Mobile Gender Gap Report 2024" sheds light on the current state of this gap across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

According to the GSMA's findings, the gender gap in mobile internet adoption across LMICs narrowed from 19% in 2022 to 15% in 2023. This represents a positive shift, indicating that women adopt mobile internet faster than men in these countries. However, despite this progress, a substantial gap of 15% persists. This translates to roughly 785 million women in LMICs who still lack access to mobile internet, hindering their ability to participate fully in the digital economy and access crucial information and services.

The report highlights significant regional variations in the mobile gender gap. South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa stand out as regions with the widest gaps. In Bangladesh, for example, the GSMA's data shows a stark disparity, with only 24% of women having access to mobile internet compared to 40% of men. This underscores the need for region-specific solutions that address the unique challenges women face in different parts of the world.

The report explores the key factors contributing to the mobile gender gap. Affordability remains a significant hurdle. Mobile phones and internet data plans can be expensive, particularly for women in low-income households. Furthermore, social norms and cultural restrictions can limit women's autonomy and mobility, hindering their ability to access and utilise mobile technologies. Additionally, a lack of digital literacy skills and limited access to safe online spaces can further disadvantage women in the digital realm.

The report emphasises the importance of targeted interventions to bridge the mobile gender gap. To do so, the potential approaches are policy initiatives aimed at reducing the cost of mobile phones, and data plans can make these technologies more accessible for women. This could involve government subsidies, tax breaks on mobile devices, and the development of low-cost data packages specifically designed for low-income users.

Equipping women with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world is crucial. Programs that provide basic training on using mobile phones, accessing the Internet, and staying safe online can empower women to reap the benefits of these technologies. These programs can be particularly effective in local languages and address women's specific needs and contexts in different communities.

Social awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives can help challenge traditional gender roles and norms restricting women's access to mobile technologies. Promoting digital inclusion for women as a pathway to empowerment and economic opportunity can be a powerful driver of change. This can involve working with community leaders, religious institutions, and influential figures to address cultural barriers and promote the value of mobile technology access for women.

Mobile network operators (MNOs) can play a critical role by developing products and services catering to women's needs. This could include offering data packages for women's typical usage patterns, such as social media access or mobile banking services. Additionally, MNOs can develop marketing campaigns that target women directly and showcase the benefits of mobile technology in their daily lives.

Closing the mobile gender gap is not just a social justice imperative but also an economic one. The GSMA estimates that bridging the digital gender gap in LMICs could add an estimated $1.4 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This financial benefit stems from increased female participation in the workforce, mobile commerce growth, and the development of new digital entrepreneurs. Empowering women through mobile technology access and digital literacy can unlock a wave of innovation and economic productivity, benefiting women and entire societies.

The report calls for a multi-stakeholder approach to address the mobile gender gap. Governments, mobile network operators, civil society organisations, and the private sector all have a role to play. Governments can create an enabling environment through policy frameworks that promote affordability, encourage competition in the mobile industry, and prioritise digital inclusion for women. Mobile network operators can develop gender-inclusive products and services, invest in infrastructure expansion to reach remote areas and address network quality and affordability issues.

Civil society organisations (CSOs) can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the mobile gender gap, implementing digital literacy training programs for women at the community level, and advocating for policies that promote women's rights in the digital sphere. The private sector can contribute by developing innovative mobile applications and services that cater to women's specific needs and investing in initiatives that promote digital literacy and entrepreneurship among women.

The GSMA's "Mobile Gender Gap Report 2024" is a valuable resource for stakeholders working towards a more equitable digital future. The report can inform policy decisions, guide program development, and inspire further action by providing data on the current gap and highlighting successful interventions. Tracking progress through ongoing data collection and analysis is crucial to measure the effectiveness of implemented strategies and identify areas where further efforts are needed. Celebrating success stories of women who have overcome barriers and thrived in the digital world can be a powerful motivator and inspire others to follow suit.

The mobile gender gap is a complex challenge with no easy solutions. However, the GSMA's report offers a clear roadmap for progress. Governments, the private sector, civil society, and individual citizens can dismantle the barriers preventing women from fully participating in the digital world. Bridging the mobile gender gap is not just about access to technology; it's about empowering women, unleashing their potential, and creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

The writer is a development worker.