MicroSave Consulting on the role of gender in growing Africa’s e-mobility sector

Africa's e-mobility sector is experiencing rapid growth, promising a future of sustainable transportation across the continent. However, the sector faces a critical challenge in achieving gender equality and inclusivity. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Elizabeth Gathu, Banking and Financial Services Manager at MicroSave Consulting, to discuss the barriers, needs, and solutions to ensure women are active participants and beneficiaries of this transformative shift. Gathu highlighted key strategies to promote gender inclusivity in the e-mobility sector. One important aspect she mentioned is the importance of including women in the entire value chain, from manufacturing to usage. For instance, hiring more women in production floors, providing engineering solutions, and involving women in the welding of bikes. Gathu cited a successful example in Rwanda where the Ministry of Infrastructure collaborated with a private sector company to ensure gender diversity on the production floor, including having a woman as the lead technician and engaging women in bike sales and rider recruitment. This approach aims to empower women across the production chain, fostering inclusivity and representation. Another crucial aspect highlighted by Gathu is ensuring women feel safe in the e-mobility environment. To address safety concerns, Gathu emphasized the importance of providing training and resources to boost women's confidence and security. She mentioned the Border Safety Association of Kenya's program, offering first aid and self-defense training to women engaged in e-mobility. By prioritizing safety and awareness, women can navigate the e-mobility sector with confidence and assurance. Moreover, Gathu discussed the financial inclusion aspect for women in the e-mobility sector. She emphasized the need for tailored microfinance and loan programs to address affordability challenges for women seeking access to e-mobility solutions. Gathu highlighted the role of various stakeholders, including multilateral institutions, government bodies, and private sectors, in providing funding and support for women-focused initiatives in the e-mobility space. She mentioned the Africa Go Green Fund, which focuses on financing green initiatives and supporting women and youth in accessing financial resources for e-mobility solutions. By structuring funds and programs that cater specifically to women in the e-mobility sector, financial inclusion can be enhanced, empowering women to actively participate in the sector's growth and development. Elizabeth Gathu's insights shed light on the importance of gender inclusivity and empowerment in Africa's e-mobility sector, emphasizing the need for strategic approaches and collaborative efforts to drive sustainable change and equality.