DIGITAL INCLUSION FOR ENTERPRISES, JOBS AND VULNERABLE PERSONS

Abstract

“Digital transformation of micro-enterprises in Ghana” reports on a study undertaken by Karanasios, Senyo and Effah, associate professors who sought to better understand how resource-poor micro-enterprises in developing countries adapted to COVID-19. They examined how micro-enterprises in Ghana were able to leverage and combine a range of low-cost or free digital technology – such as WhatsApp, Instagram and mobile money – to reimagine their business while managing their resource constraints. They interviewed 47 participants across 34 micro-enterprises, government agencies and technology firms. They also drew upon key reports and data from national and international bodies. Also, the study was driven by the need to improve e-business usage and digital financial inclusion of the MSMEs of the COMESA region. The study aimed to develop and test a framework that augmented digital financial inclusion through e-business usage among MSMEs. The specific objectives were to examine the dynamic trend of e-business adoption among MSMEs of the region, to analyze the factors affecting their adoption of e-business, and to examine the impact of e-business adoption on digital financial inclusion among them. This century is characterized by great innovations in technology. However, not everybody is connected. Gaps persist between individuals when accessing and using various digital technologies. Vulnerable people are more affected. The study aimed at discovering also factors that influence digital inclusion for the vulnerable people in the economies some countries in Africa.