The Oxford Africa Women Leadership Institute (OAWLI), an Enterprise Support Organisation, has issued a clarion call for the government to enhance the export readiness of women-led Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana.

This imperative arises from the pressing need to diversify Ghana’s export base, reduce dependence on oil revenue, and foster economic resilience. The report underscores the pivotal role that women entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth and calls for concerted efforts to support their participation in international trade.

According to the OAWLI report, a staggering 92 percent of women-led businesses in Ghana have never ventured into exporting. This stark reality highlights the existing barriers and challenges that hinder women entrepreneurs from tapping into global markets. Among the key findings, only a minority of respondents had prior export experience, with many lacking the necessary certifications and knowledge of export procedures.

The report reveals a significant gap in awareness regarding export requirements and certifications, with only 20 percent of respondents indicating awareness of the necessary certifications. This lack of awareness further compounds the challenges faced by women-led SMEs in accessing international markets.

Moreover, despite the introduction of initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a considerable proportion of respondents remained unaware of its implications, signaling a need for targeted education and awareness campaigns.

Addressing the Challenges

To address these challenges, the report advocates for tailored support mechanisms to enhance the export readiness of women-led SMEs. This includes facilitating access to export certifications from regulatory bodies such as the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD), Food and Drug Authority (FDA), and Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). By streamlining the certification process and providing targeted assistance, the government can empower women entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of international trade.

Furthermore, the report emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to bolster digital marketing capabilities among women-led SMEs. In an increasingly digitalized world, social media platforms offer a cost-effective means for businesses to reach a global audience. By equipping women entrepreneurs with digital marketing skills and technology tools, the government can enhance their competitiveness in the global marketplace.

While acknowledging existing government efforts, the report underscores the need for proactive engagement and collaboration between policymakers, industry stakeholders, and women entrepreneurs. It emphasizes the importance of personalized support and capacity-building initiatives tailored to the unique needs of women-led businesses.

Moreover, beyond facilitating access to export certifications and digital marketing tools, there is a pressing need to address systemic barriers that disproportionately affect women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to finance, gender biases, and lack of mentorship opportunities.

To ensure the meaningful participation of women-led SMEs in the export sector, it is imperative to implement comprehensive policies that promote gender equality, enhance access to financial resources, and provide mentorship and networking opportunities. By fostering an enabling environment that fosters the growth and success of women entrepreneurs, Ghana can harness the full potential of its human capital and drive inclusive economic growth.

The OAWLI report serves as a wakeup call for stakeholders to prioritize the empowerment of women-led SMEs in Ghana’s export sector. By enhancing export readiness, providing targeted support, and leveraging technology, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its women entrepreneurs and drive sustainable economic development. Now is the time for concerted action to create an inclusive and vibrant export ecosystem that benefits all segments of society.