Key barriers and enablers of women’s access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs): A desktop review

Abstract

Objectives- The main objective of this paper was to examine key barriers and enablers of women’s access to and usage of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

Methods- This study employed a desk review approach, analyzing literature focused on the gender digital divide, with particular attention to reliable sources detailing women’s access to and use of technology. The review also included case studies of initiatives with both successful and adverse outcomes, and examined strategies that have addressed the associated risks. Using Google Scholar, 25 relevant articles were identified and screened to extract key themes and insights. These themes, aligned with the research objectives, formed the structure for the systematic presentation and discussion of findings.

Results- Literature has shown that women face a number of challenges in their access and use of Information and Communication Technologies. The prominent ones are lack of time, lack of skills, and lack of expertise in ICTs and low income by women. Furthermore, the study has shown that there are various enablers that cause women to use and access ICTs. These include among others computer access at a young age, availability of bursaries and knowledge of family members about the Information Technology careers. Finally, the study has revealed that different organizations globally and scholars have devised strategies to mitigate the digital divide.

Conclusions- This study highlights the critical role of ICTs in enhancing the livelihoods of women and girls. It has revealed both barriers and enablers to women’s access to and usage of ICTs. The findings show that while ICTs offer important opportunities, digital divides and gender based challenges continue to impede women’s full participation in the digital economy. Case studies from various sectors demonstrated how targeted initiatives can close these gaps and promote women’s empowerment, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal number five (5), thereby offering a solid foundation for informing future policies and programs that aim to harness the transformative potential of ICTs in promoting gender equity and sustainable development. The study recommends that stakeholders should urgently address the barriers identified in the literature.