The gender gap in Africa’s tech industry remains wide. Yet, more African women are graduating with STEM degrees than anywhere else in the world. The real challenge begins after school. Many struggle to enter the technology workforce despite having the right qualifications. Busha and Women in DeFi (WiD) want to change that.
Both organisations have launched a partnership to help more women build careers in technology, Web3, and digital finance across Africa. The partnership was unveiled at the Women in DeFi Summit 2026 in Lagos. During the event, five young women received laptop scholarships to support their learning, career growth, and business dreams.
The Aim of the Partnership
The laptop scholarship is the first project under the partnership. However, it is only the beginning. Busha and Women in DeFi plan to roll out several programmes that will improve digital skills and financial knowledge.
The initiative also aims to connect women with opportunities in blockchain and emerging technologies. According to McKinsey’s 2025 report, women make up about 47 per cent of STEM graduates in Africa. Even so, they occupy only 23 to 30 per cent of technology jobs. The new partnership hopes to close this gap by giving women access to training, practical tools, and supportive communities.
Scholarship Beneficiaries Are Excited
One of the scholarship beneficiaries, Peace Toluwanimi Omosehin, already has big plans. She studies Pharmacy and hopes to move into pharmacy informatics after graduation. She said receiving the laptop will help her build skills in healthcare technology and data analytics.
Looking ahead, the partnership will introduce WiD Goes to School to expose young women to careers in blockchain, innovation, and digital finance. It will also launch a six-month savings challenge powered by Busha’s savings product. In addition, an Introduction to Web3 Programme will teach practical blockchain and decentralised finance skills.
The Partnership And The Future of Africa’s Digital Economy
Speaking on the partnership, Busha’s Head of Brand and Communications, Ngozi Okonye, said,
“The future of Africa’s digital economy depends on the talent we invest in today. While there is no shortage of ambitious and capable women, access to the right tools, education, and opportunities often determines who gets to participate. Through this partnership with Women in DeFi, we are helping create practical pathways that enable more women to build careers, create businesses, and contribute to the industries shaping Africa’s future.”
Founder of Women in DeFi, Sarah Idahosa, also said,
“Women belong at every level of the digital economy, not only as users, but as builders, innovators, founders, and leaders. Our mission has always been to bridge the gender gap in Web3 by equipping women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed.”
Together, both organisations believe empowering more women today will help build a stronger and more inclusive digital economy for Africa.
