810 million women in low- and middle-income countries still do not use mobile internet. This figure contributes to a 12% gender gap, meaning 200 million fewer women use mobile internet than men.
Persistent barriers prevent women from accessing digital services. These obstacles include high costs for mobile phones and data, lacking digital skills, and safety concerns online. These issues disproportionately affect women due to underlying social norms and economic inequalities.
This digital divide restricts women's economic participation and access to vital services. The lack of mobile internet access hinders their ability to improve livelihoods and achieve full economic potential. This problem is especially severe in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, regions with gender gaps of 26% and 25% respectively.
The 'Mobile Gender Gap Report 2026' from GSMA revealed these findings. Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at the GSMA, emphasized the slow progress. She stated that more effort is needed to close the significant gender gaps in mobile internet adoption. She highlighted the urgency to accelerate progress through informed and targeted action from all stakeholders.
Closing this mobile gender gap offers significant economic benefits. It could add GHS 14.8 trillion ($1.3 trillion) to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of low- and middle-income countries by 2030. It could also generate GHS 2.6 trillion ($230 billion) in additional revenue for the mobile industry. Decision-makers must address affordability, digital literacy, and safety to unlock this potential. Watch for collaborations between governments, industry, and development bodies to accelerate progress.
The report also indicates a 13% gender gap in smartphone ownership in these countries. This means 210 million fewer women than men own smartphones, limiting their internet access. Even for women who are online, affordability of data and safety fears restrict their usage. These factors prevent them from fully benefiting from mobile internet.
Addressing the mobile gender gap is crucial for Ghana's economic development. Expanding digital inclusion can empower women, boost productivity, and drive economic growth. This challenge requires a coordinated national strategy to tackle barriers effectively.
The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) further stresses the need for digital inclusion. AI can widen existing digital divides if access remains unequal. Ensuring equal access to mobile internet is essential for fair participation in the evolving digital economy. Targeted investments in digital skills and infrastructure are necessary.