In Ghana, women entrepreneurs are the backbone of the informal economy, running small businesses that sustain families and local markets despite limited support. With little access to formal education, finance, or legal protections, many rely on savings groups, social networks, and multiple income streams to stay afloat. Yet daily realities—from eviction threats to fluctuating costs—make survival uncertain. Research shows these women are neither passive victims nor simple symbols of resilience, but strategic operators navigating complex systems and social expectations. Some even reframe their businesses as family caregiving to gain social acceptance in a world that still views women as “weaker vessels.” These women’s efforts highlight both the hidden costs of informal work and its critical role in economic stability. Researchers argue that recognizing and formally supporting these enterprises—through simplified registration, context-sensitive finance, and training—could unlock broader economic growth for Ghana.
The Conversation
