Poor network signal in South Africas rural communities, is leaving many women entrepreneurs vulnerable in emergencies and left behind in the digital economy.
Across subsistence farming, tourism, and small trading, women entrepreneurs depend on connectivity for the basics of modern business. This includes taking bookings, processing payments, and receiving phone calls. Yet the reality in many rural areas is stark: calls drop, signals vanish, and online platforms remain out of reach for many.
In the rural communities where we operate, a significant number of households are led by women. When they draw courage to start their own businesses to support their families, many of them face considerable challenges due to poor network connectivity. This hampers both their personal safety and business growth, says Khanya Shipalana, co-founder of Moropa Site Solutions .