It also has a strong focus on positively impacting the lives of women, both in terms of providing them with access to safe transport and empowering them economically.

In many parts of Africa, women have traditionally been excluded from the formal workforce and still have limited opportunities to earn an income.

Uber is changing this paradigm by providing a platform for women to become flexible entrepreneurs and earn money on their terms.

The platform dubbed: “GigSister,” was launched at the gathering of women leaders to climax international women's month in Accra.

The platform will enable many women in Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and other countries across the continent to gain financial independence and support themselves and their families.

It is an influencer-led community group created to connect, empower and grow female drivers on the Uber platform across Africa.

The initiative, which has already achieved success in parts of Europe and the United Kingdom (UK), sees Uber teaming up with like-minded partners, including Google and L’Oreal, to uplift and empower women.

Partnership

The Head of Uber Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, Marjorie Saint-Lot, said Uber was excited about the opportunity to partner with other players to celebrate the potential of women to be business leaders in Africa.

He said in the process, it would be able to promote gender equality, recognising the contributions of women in business creating a more level playing field for both genders in the continent.

“We are inspiring women and girls to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and career ambitions,” she said.

Ms Saint-Lot explained that as a global organisation that prioritises inclusion and gender equity, Uber has long championed the cause of women around the world.

She said not only because it was a moral imperative to create a more just and equitable society with opportunities for all, but also to promote gender equality and putting more women in leadership positions was crucial to propel more innovative and sustainable businesses.

Global community

The Head of TechConnect Africa, Jeminatu Alabi-isama, stated that it was the mission of TechConnect Africa to build a highly engaged, innovative and interconnected global community.

“We are proud to work with Uber on this initiative to uplift and empower women across Africa and transform communities,” she said.

Ms Saint-Lot called for strong interventions to promote economic equity with a special focus on technology.

She explained that technology and innovation could play an important role in breaking gender barriers – not only by providing more opportunities for female entrepreneurs and innovators to be heard, but also by creating new products designed specifically with women’s needs in mind.

Technology and culture

The discussions at the gathering organised as part of international women’s month focused on the role of technology and culture in promoting equity across the continent.

It was on the theme, “The intersectionality of technology and culture in promoting equity in the African economic landscape”.

The forum created an opportunity for African women and girls to remind themselves of their potential to become global leaders and trailblazers in the world of tech and business.

The event attracted African female business role models, who shared their experiences and insights, including the lessons they had learned in their respective journeys.