Computer software coders in Nigeria: Despite the coronavirus, Africa’s potential and the resourcefulness of its people remain intact, says the IMF, and tapping this potential will be vital if the region is to find its way back to a path of sustainable and inclusive development.
ITC, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), United Postal Service (UPS) and W20 will launch an action plan to promote women’s entrepreneurship in the economic fallout of the COVID pandemic at the virtual W20 Summit on 22 October 2020.
The plan details concrete actions for countries, companies and the international community to take to ensure a more resilient and durable future that takes gender-specific needs into account.
Women, who disproportionately work in sectors hit most by lockdowns and other measures taken to stem the spread of coronavirus, hold the key to economic recovery, the plan contends.
‘If action is taken, businesswomen will be able to capitalize on e-commerce opportunities, profit from gender lens investing and have greater control over productive resources,’ the plan says. ‘They will contribute more to gross domestic product and have greater influence and decision-making power.’
The publication, Women Entrepreneurs: An Action Plan to Build Back Better, will be launched at the virtual W20 Summit hosted by Saudi Arabia by Pamela Coke-Hamilton of ITC, John W.H. Denton of ICC, Penelope Naas of UPS and Thoraya Obaid of W20.
The plan gathers insights from governments, businesses and women’s economic empowerment networks about six key trends and potential scenarios that matter for women in trade.
The plan also includes contributions from:
- Hon. Arancha González Laya, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, Spain
- Hon. Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, Canada
- Hon. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister of Small Business Development, South Africa
- Hon. Lucas Palacios, Minister of Economy, Development and Tourism, Chile
- Sen. The Hon. Marise Payne (Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Australia
- H.E. Dr. Isatou Touray, Vice President, the Gambia
- UPS, Li & Fung Group, Mastercard, Walmart and 15 global experts from women’s economic empowerment networks also have contributed to the policy briefs.
