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The report investigates both the entrepreneurial and the small- to medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs ) landscapes in North Africa with a specific focus on women ’ s contributions . It presents recommendations for governments to foster a more favourable environment for women-led enterprises and therefore put national economies on a path of faster , more inclusive and resilient growth .

“ The report underscores that female entrepreneurship and women-led SMEs tend to create more jobs for women . They are thus key for bringing North African women into the labour market and helping reduce the large gender gaps in employment in the region ,” said Amal Elbeshbishi , Economist at the ECA Office for North Africa .

“ By enhancing the economic opportunities for women , gender-smart investing also supports social , educational and health outcomes . This in turn buoys sustainable development , job creation and resilience during times of economic crisis ,” said Cobus de Hart , Director of Consulting at Oxford Economics Africa .

Current employment figures in North Africa show that women account for a significantly lower share of the working age population than the global average ( less than 20 % of North Africa ’ s employed working age population is female against a global average just above 40 %). This trend has worsened further in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the region ’ s recent economic and other challenges .

North Africa can significantly benefit from increased female contribution to its economy . According to recent research , SMEs and entrepreneurship are positively linked to faster economic growth and job creation . “ Since women often bring skills that are complementary to men ’ s , well-targeted policies , strategies and investments supporting female-led SMEs could also have a positive impact on overall productivity ,” said Zuzana Brixiova Schwidrowski , Director at the ECA Office for North Africa .

North African countries have made significant progress in adopting comprehensive legislations concerning SMEs . However , many specific impediments faced by female entrepreneurs and female business owners in accessing information , markets , financial services , land and other assets remain . Inequalities in ownership of resources such as land especially impede women ’ s access to credit and limit the growth of their firms . Moreover , most North African countries are still lacking specific policies directed towards supporting female entrepreneurship and women-owned businesses . �