A story of inclusive digital transformation led by CSI, GIZ, and GFA
“Technology becomes truly powerful only when it’s inclusive.”
In Ghana’s informal sector, thousands of women entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules of digital engagement. Yet, for many, accessing and using digital tools remains a challenge.
At the Centre for Social Innovations (CSI), we were honored to participate in a forward-thinking initiative led by GIZ and implemented by GFA Consulting Group. The focus: bridging the gap between technology creators and women micro-entrepreneurs through user interface and user experience (UI/UX) research.
📍 Groundwork: Building Capacity for Change
The journey began with a five-day immersive training at Hapaspace in Kumasi. It brought together digital solution providers, intermediaries, and UX specialists to develop skills in human-centered design, usability testing, and user research.
🔍 UI/UX: Putting People First
Too often, digital tools are designed far from the communities they intend to serve. UI/UX research flips the script by focusing on real user needs. CSI collaborated with IPAY and SIKA TRADER to engage women entrepreneurs directly, uncover barriers, and refine solutions.
Key actions included:
- In-depth research with women-led SMEs
- Identifying usability gaps
- Supporting developers with testing and redesign
“This project showed us that even the most informal trader has digital potential—when given the right tools and voice.” – CSI Project Lead
🤝 Bridging the Gap: CSI’s Role
As an intermediary, CSI facilitated dialogue between developers and users, translated insights into product tweaks, and ensured that women entrepreneurs’ feedback shaped every iteration.
🌱 Empowerment Through Participation
The impact was far-reaching: increased confidence, active participation in shaping solutions, and a renewed sense of ownership among women entrepreneurs. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goals—especially SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 9 (Innovation).
💡 What Tech Providers Gained
- Expert guidance on UX best practices
- Increased user trust and product adoption
- Long-term relationships with end-users
🚀 What’s Next?
This initiative is more than a project—it’s a blueprint for inclusive tech development. CSI invites innovators, NGOs, and public sector actors to mainstream user-centred design. Together, we can build a future where no entrepreneur is left behind.
By: Gideon Acheampong
