Africa’s transition toward a greener and more sustainable economy is creating new business opportunities, but a new report shows that women entrepreneurs are still largely excluded from this growth story. The study, released by WomHub, highlights how female-led businesses across the continent are consistently underfunded and overlooked, even though they make up a major share of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Billions on the Table, But Women Left Behind
According to WomHub’s findings, women run around 40% of Africa’s SMEs, yet they access less than 10% of commercial funding. The gap is even more visible in climate-related innovation: in 2024, solo women founders accounted for just 5% of total deals and a mere 1% of overall investment.
This lack of support means women entrepreneurs are missing out on a potential $42 billion boost to Africa’s green economy, a missed chance that slows progress for both the economy and the fight against climate change.
Real Challenges on the Ground
For many women innovators, the problem isn’t a lack of ideas or ambition—it’s the barriers around financing. Unlike larger companies, most women-led startups don’t have access to formal agreements, big contracts, or extensive investor networks. As a result, they struggle to convince funders to take a chance on them.
Stories of Innovation and Resilience
WomHub’s report also shines light on inspiring women already building change. One example is Andiswa Mbana, founder of Tread Lightly Atelier. Her business transforms discarded tyres into stylish furniture and accessories. Growing up in rural Eastern Cape, Andiswa learned entrepreneurship early by helping in her family’s shop.
Through WomHub’s programs, she gained mentorship, market access, and the tools to pitch her eco-friendly business across South Africa. Her story reflects what’s possible when women are given the right support: innovation that creates jobs, reduces waste, and drives sustainability.
Why This Gap Matters
The underfunding of women in the green economy is more than just an issue of fairness—it’s an economic and environmental setback. Women bring unique insights into community needs and often focus on solutions that benefit households and local markets. By excluding them, the continent loses out on scalable ideas in areas like clean cooking, renewable energy, sustainable farming, and circular economy models.
Closing the Gap
The report calls for urgent steps to bridge this divide:
- More accessible early-stage funding that doesn’t demand unrealistic conditions.
- Exposure to wider markets and investors so women’s innovations can reach scale.
- Policy frameworks that recognize gender barriers in climate and tech funding.
- Tailored mentorship and training, especially in STEM and entrepreneurship.
A Window of Opportunity
Africa’s green economy is still in its early stages, which means there’s time to rewrite the narrative. With deliberate investment in women founders, the continent can unlock new levels of innovation and growth—while also strengthening its response to climate change.
As WomHub’s report makes clear, supporting women in green business is not charity; it’s smart economics.-
