A new assessment of gender equality and economic inclusion has identified 10 African countries where women are experiencing greater access to economic opportunities, from employment and entrepreneurship to financial independence and property ownership. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2024, these countries are leading the way in breaking down traditional barriers and creating a more level playing field for women in the workforce and business sectors.

The top 10 African countries advancing women's economic empowerment are Liberia, Botswana, Eswatini, Togo, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Burundi, Namibia, Madagascar, and Ghana. These nations have made notable progress in creating environments where women can thrive as entrepreneurs, professionals, and decision-makers.

In countries like Liberia and Botswana, institutional support and public policy have paved the way for better job security and access to capital. Meanwhile, Kenya and Ghana are witnessing a rise in women-led start-ups and SMEs, supported by fintech innovations and digital banking services. This growth is attributed to deliberate policies and focused investments in women's economic empowerment, which can yield impactful results not just for women, but for broader national development.

The report highlights that progress in these countries is driven by a combination of factors, including legislation, financial inclusion strategies, and access to education and skills development. These efforts have created an environment where women can participate more fully in the economy, access capital, and start their own businesses.

Despite this progress, there remains significant work to be done across the continent. Many women still face systemic challenges, including wage gaps, limited land ownership rights, and societal norms that restrict economic participation. Stakeholders across government, civil society, and the private sector are urged to intensify efforts to eliminate these barriers and ensure that progress is inclusive and sustainable.

The report's findings serve as a call to action, emphasizing the need for continued investment in women's economic empowerment to drive national development and growth. As countries like Togo, Namibia, and Eswatini demonstrate, deliberate policies and focused investments can yield impactful results, not just for women, but for the broader economy.

The importance of women's economic empowerment cannot be overstated. By creating an environment where women can participate fully in the economy, African countries can unlock significant economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve overall development outcomes. As such, the progress made by these 10 countries serves as a beacon of hope for the continent, and a reminder of the importance of continued efforts to promote gender equality and economic inclusion.