The technology that has long provided convenience in most daily lives is now transforming opportunities available to entrepreneurs in developing countries. Mobile technology in Zimbabwe has risen to more than 71 percent, supplementing the work of SKImfi and allowing women in Zimbabwe to expand, organize, and promote their entrepreneurial efforts.

A SKImfi entrepreneur completes the loan process.

Mobile technology in Africa has created a major boon in business in recent years, and has a particular impact on women working with organizations like SKI Microfinance Institute. Mobile banking applications strengthen solidarity lending. They allow women to reinvest their earnings, move money between one another with ease, and distribute funds to their families in rural areas. A 2011 case study on Zimbabwe by Groupe Speciale Mobile Association (GSMA) cited a 41 percent increase in opportunities for women to generate income and an 81 percent increase in women’s independence when they can access mobile phones.

The distances that technology allows us to traverse give women the opportunity to build the best possible businesses. Instead of solely relying on local suppliers, SKImifi entrepreneurs can explore vendor options outside their immediate circle and find quality products in more distant locations. This flexibility expands the types of businesses women choose to start and extends the circle of microfinance engagement to other types of vendors. The connections made possible by mobile technology improve both the work lives and the personal lives of women; 93 percent of women in the GSMA study reported feeling more connected to family and friends since owning a mobile device.

They are better able to organize staff, manage their finances, and communicate without restriction to create efficient, lucrative businesses. Access to mobile tools allows SKImifi entrepreneurs to reach their potential as leaders.