High cost of tech limits growth for women-led small businesses, says Mweki
“If the cost is reduced and made so affordable that you don’t feel the burden, then businesses can truly thrive,” she said.
By Robert Assad
High costs of technology and operational expenses are stifling the potential of women-led micro and small enterprises, according to Felista Mweki, an official with Imanti Consultant.
Speaking during a business forum at the Boma Hotel in Eldoret, Mweki emphasized the need for more affordable digital tools to support business growth, particularly among women entrepreneurs.
Mweki, who has extensive experience supporting small businesses, pointed out that while digital financial services like M-Pesa have enabled micro-enterprises to remain afloat through accessible credit and seamless transactions, the cost of integrating technology remains a major barrier.
“Women see the benefits of technology, but many say, ‘We are not able to afford it at the moment,’” she said. “They want a working system that is suitable for them.”
She added that device financing solutions must be expanded and made affordable, so that entrepreneurs can access necessary equipment like computers and internet services.
“If the cost is reduced and made so affordable that you don’t feel the burden, then businesses can truly thrive,” she said.
Mweki praised services like M-Pesa for helping small traders manage liquidity and access micro-loans, allowing them to restock goods and repay in manageable amounts.
She also highlighted the role of stable internet in enabling remote business operations, saying, “It gives you that hustle-free system where you can order goods and make payments from the comfort of your office.”
Despite the strides in digital financial solutions, Mweki urged further investment in tools that lower barriers to entry for marginalized business owners, particularly women.
She emphasized the role of networking and collaboration in business success and encouraged non-participating entrepreneurs to engage in forums like the one of Safaricom held in Eldoret.
“Having a community to work with is something that I hold dearly because networking is key for the growth of your business,” she said. “Every day you meet someone who becomes a new opportunity.”
The forum brought together stakeholders in digital finance and small business support to explore solutions aimed at increasing inclusion and affordability for Kenya’s growing base of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
About Author
