African women-led businesses drive 50% surge in global exports – ANKA Report

The African commerce sector has been enhanced rapidly owing to the digital revolution, particularly in the aspect of e-commerce. ANKA, an all-encompassing Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, is steadfastly running with this growth.

In collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), ANKA released a comprehensive white paper titled “Global African Commerce.” This paper sheds light on the growth of African businesses, with a special focus on the role played by women entrepreneurs.

The report is an updated extension of ANKA’s 2018 edition, and offers a holistic global analysis of the state of African e-commerce; covering the entire entrepreneurial journey from product creation to international delivery.

The report revealed that one of the most striking research findings is the significant impact on job creation. Entrepreneurs using the platform have experienced substantial growth in their businesses, expanding their teams by 50% – fostering job opportunities and demonstrating the platform’s capacity to drive job growth.

With a continental median age of 18.8 years, ANKA’s white paper highlights how the platform is opening up new opportunities in the job market for youth employment.

With over 72% of ANKA’s sellers identifying as women, it is becoming the go-to platform for women entrepreneurs and a source of insight into their experiences in leading small and medium-sized businesses.

Other key findings of the white paper lead us to explore how women contribute to job creation and shape innovative financing solutions across the continent. –

Women as Pioneers in E-commerce

ANKA’s white paper revealed the growth of African businesses in the e-commerce sector, with women entrepreneurs at the forefront.

The platform, connecting over 20,000 sellers in 100 countries, the platform is leveraged by women entrepreneurs who are embracing digital platforms to expand their businesses globally.

Social Media Leverage

A commendable 77% of ANKA’s sellers utilise platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook, and Instagram, with a significant majority being women.

This highlights their adeptness in leveraging social media for business purposes, enabling them to connect with a broader audience and drive sales.

The white paper further reveals that 75% of the top sellers, earning over $3000 per month, are women targeting international markets, demonstrating their prowess in navigating the global e-commerce landscape.

Record-Breaking Sales and Financial Impact

Women entrepreneurs on the ANKA platform have not only shattered records but also made a substantial economic impact.

With the highest monthly sales reaching $47,000, and an average yearly income of $2,843, women are proving to be top players in the marketplace.

This financial success to their resilience, business acumen, and ability to scale the complexities of e-commerce.

Decision-Makers and Trendsetters

The white paper brings to light the fact that 89% of ANKA’s buyers are women, aged between 35 and 44. This demographic revelation underscores the influential role women play as key decision-makers in the marketplace.

Their preferences, choices, and purchasing power shape trends, making them trendsetters in the e-commerce ecosystem.

Inclusive Diaspora Engagement

ANKA’s engagement with the African Diaspora, where 30% of its users reside, provides a unique platform for women entrepreneurs to connect with diverse markets.

The global outreach creates opportunities for African women to establish economic ties with the diaspora, fostering cross-cultural exchange and contributing to job creation on an international scale.

Financial Empowerment and Inclusion

ANKA serves as a marketplace a financial hub with an average basket size for buyers ranging from $62 to $117. This financial data points to the economic viability of the platform and, more importantly, the financial empowerment and inclusion of women entrepreneurs.

ANKA is a conduit for women to access financial resources, providing them with the means to scale their businesses and contribute to broader economic growth.

The white paper by ANKA and the African Development Bank asserts the indispensable role played by women entrepreneurs in African commerce.

Women are continually setting records, and shaping the e-commerce sector, driving job creation and financial solutions.

They are building a more inclusive, dynamic, and prosperous African business environment.

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