Evaluating women participation in information and communication technology (ICT) among MSME’s in Zambia; a case study of CBD, Lusaka.

This study focused on evaluating women participation in ICT among MSMEs in CBD, Lusaka and the objectives were; to determine the prevalence of women’s participation in ICT entrepreneurship across different enterprise levels (micro, small, and medium enterprises). The study used the TOE framework to formulate the variables that constitute this study. To identify the factors affecting women’s participation in ICT entrepreneurship and to investigate strategies that have been put in place for women to stay in entrepreneurship and continue to add value to the economic wellbeing of the nation. The study involved a total sample size of 103 respondent, (97 questionnaires and 6 interviews). Mixed method involved was purposive and simple random which were used as sampling techniques. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guide. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27 for quantitative data while thematic analysis was used. Based on the findings, it is evident that there is a significant gender gap as far as evaluating women participation in ICT among MSMEs is concerned. Regarding the prevalence levels of women participation, the study showed that 24.7% were micro enterprise, while SMEs were 75.3% and medium enterprise was at 0%. The study further revealed that there are few women participating in the ICT domain among MSMEs in Lusaka despite revealing a keen interest among women in the ICT. The challenges identified included; limited access to necessary equipment, empowerment, and lack of public understanding of the industry, regulatory gaps, gender discrimination and biasness. This study recommended promoting STEM education, advocate for Gender inclusive, mentorship programs, encouraging networking events, curricula tailored to incorporate women participation in ICT among MSMEs.

Grantor dc:publisher

The University of Zambia

Year dc:date.issued

2022

Author dc:creator

• Bwato, Muka

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://dspace.unza.zm/handle/123456789/9191

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.unza.zm:123456789/9191