The BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) and Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) co-hosted an international conference on July 2–3, 2025, in Accra, Ghana, focusing on the role of digital inclusion in women’s empowerment.
As the digital landscape evolves, women’s access to connectivity has become a critical factor in expanding their economic opportunities. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to examine how digital inclusion can provide women with the tools and agency to navigate both formal and informal economies, opening new avenues for economic independence, financial decision-making, and social empowerment.
Building on research from WEE-DiFine, WEE-Connect, IPA, and partners, the event explored the pathways through which digital access translates—or fails to translate—into economic autonomy and gender equality. Discussions underscored that access alone is not enough; meaningful empowerment requires integrated solutions that combine technology, user-centered design, training, and supportive policies.
The two-day program also featured an exhibition showcasing the work of Ghanaian-based academics and implementers, offering local perspectives on how digital inclusion is shaping women’s social and economic futures in the region.
To extend these discussions, we have prepared a blog that provides a detailed recap of the event and its key insights.
