Breaking the Barriers: Advocating for Women’s Empowerment in Africa’s Transport Industry
The transport industry in Africa has long been dominated by men, limiting women’s participation and hindering their progress. According to Emmanuel Mogaji, an Associate Professor at Keele Business School in the United Kingdom, the patriarchal norms and practices ingrained in African societies perpetuate an unequal landscape in the transport industry, excluding women from decision-making roles and business leadership.
In a paper titled Women entrepreneurs in transport family business: A perspective article, Professor Mogaji highlights the urgent need for change in the deeply rooted gender biases that exist. He argues that women have always been involved in business activities to support their families, but the exploration of women’s engagement in family-owned transportation businesses in Africa emphasizes the necessity for gender equality in the industry.
One of the significant challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the transport sector is the inadequate infrastructure and a lack of support facilities. Poor road networks and unreliable connectivity hamper the operations of transport businesses, disproportionately affecting women. Professor Mogaji emphasizes the intersection of gender and infrastructure in influencing women’s prospects in the industry.
To address these barriers and enhance women’s engagement in the transportation sector, Professor Mogaji suggests a multi-faceted approach. He proposes the implementation of mentorship programs, provision of resources, and skill development opportunities to promote women’s active participation and leadership roles within the sector. By encouraging family-owned businesses to embrace gender diversity and extend equal opportunities for women to join their boards, decision-making processes can be more inclusive, contributing to sustained industry growth.
Furthermore, promoting women’s pursuit of education and training in transport-related fields equips them with the necessary knowledge and expertise to thrive in the industry. Mentorship programs and networking initiatives can also provide valuable guidance and support as women navigate the traditionally male-dominated landscape.
Professor Mogaji stresses the importance of involving women in decision-making processes, as their perspectives often lead to more innovative and effective strategies. Gender-balanced decision-making has been shown to improve financial performance, organizational creativity, and customer satisfaction. Women leaders also prioritize safety and passenger comfort, which positively impacts customer experiences. Additionally, they foster collaborative and supportive work cultures, leading to increased employee engagement and retention rates.
By establishing an environment that appreciates and supports women’s contributions, family-owned transportation businesses can benefit from a wealth of talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. This approach positions these businesses as forward-thinking and socially responsible leaders within the industry.
In conclusion, breaking the barriers and advocating for women’s empowerment in Africa’s transport industry is crucial for achieving gender equality and driving overall growth and innovation. By challenging existing norms and implementing comprehensive action plans, the industry can become more inclusive, harnessing the potential of capable and talented women entrepreneurs. Addressing systemic biases, inadequate infrastructure, and promoting women’s active participation will pave the way for a thriving and inclusive transportation sector in Africa.
