Paahibu Space, a digital and technology innovation hub, has launched a new initiative dubbed GROW (Girls and Women Rising on the Web), aimed at empowering informal women micro-entrepreneurs through digital tools and networks.
The launch took place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, with funding support from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ Ghana).
Speaking at the launch, the CEO of Paahibu Space, Hiqimat Sungdeme Saani, said the GROW Network is a flagship initiative designed to close the gendered digital divide in underserved regions like the Upper West Region.
She said the project would equip women with digital skills, financial literacy and access to collaborative ecosystems to scale their businesses sustainably.
Ms. Saani noted that women in informal sectors often face systemic barriers to entrepreneurship and digital participation, adding that the project seeks to foster a gender-responsive digital transformation.
She explained that through mentorship, peer learning and advocacy for gender-sensitive policies, GROW would offer a safe and empowering space for women and girls to thrive.
She said, “The GROW Network aims to cultivate a relatable and empowering community that enhances confidence and resilience among women and girls.”
Madam Alice Doghle, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Officer at the Ghana TVET Service in the Upper West Region, commended the initiative and described it as timely and inclusive.
She said women in the informal sector have long been left behind when it comes to digital literacy, despite being the backbone of the local economy.
She added that the GROW project aligns with the mission of Ghana TVET Service to transform lives through skills, inclusion and innovation.
“We are so grateful for this initiative, and we hope it grows bigger and better to improve the lives of women in the informal sector,” she said.
One of the participants, Madam Amina of the Ghana Progressive Hairdressers Association, shared how the training was already proving useful.
She said women like her often invest in products they are unable to sell simply because they lack the digital know-how to market them.
“Sometimes you go on TikTok and see people showcase products, and you wonder how they do it,” she said, expressing optimism that she would learn it through the project.
She added that the project will help many women convert their unsold products into income and boost visibility for their businesses.
Another participant, Mr. Jamaldeen Seidu, noted that though the project targets women, he feels responsible to help amplify its benefits to female members of his association.
He said the training expanded their understanding of the digital landscape beyond Facebook and WhatsApp.
“We now know different platforms where we can download designs, create logos for our businesses, and improve visibility and sales,” he said.
