Writes Nyasha Mutena
Poverty remains a global challenge, but its impact is not evenly distributed—women are disproportionately affected by economic hardship compared to men.
According to the United Nations, women make up the majority of the world’s poor, facing unique barriers that make it harder to escape poverty. From wage gaps and unpaid labor to lack of education and systemic discrimination, the reasons behind this disparity are complex and deeply rooted in social, economic, and political structures.
Madam C.J Walker, early 20th Century hair and beauty entrepreneur once said, “I am not merely satisfied in making money for myself, for I am endeavoring to provide employment for hundreds of women of my race…I want to say to every Negro woman present, don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them!”
This can be classified as one of the most powerful messages to ever come from a black woman and to those women who are still contemplating if it is the right time to come out from behind the curtain, the time is now, procrastination is the thief of time.
If one is to take a walk around any part of the city or country, visit any border post or walk across any open space anywhere where vending activities take centre stage, they are likely to be confronted by hordes of women, selling all sorts of wares from freezits to any saleable item, they will labor right into the grave to fend for their families.
Women who have fought their way to the top will attest that it is also not rosy up there because they also have to battle with boardroom politics and coup d`etat from their male colleagues, who often perceive them as incompetent and products of all forms of affirmative actions.
Even in parts of society where education and economic empowerment are accepted and promoted, women are expected to perform majority of household chores, leaving them with little or no time to meet up with the “girls” to strategize, like what men do over a tot of whisky and a glass of beer, in some fancy club house, away from the household madness.
Anywhere in the world, it is an undisputable fact that women are key to food security and agriculture; essential players in the promotion of the rights of the child; major actors in health care provision and peace makers in times of conflict.
The nature of a woman also places her on a better pedestal in society as she serves as a role model both to the child and the society as mother and wife respectively. Yes, poverty has remained with the face of a woman, but sadly though, the features have not been frightening enough to warrant any immediacy on the part of our policymakers. Most of the burdens women face are necessitated by a myriad of challenges.
The Gender Wage Gap and Employment Barriers
One of the key factors contributing to women’s higher poverty rates is the persistent gender wage gap. Across the world, women earn approximately 20% less than men for the same work, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). Even in industries where women dominate, such as healthcare and education, men often occupy higher-paying leadership positions.
Additionally, women are more likely to work in informal or part-time jobs with little to no job security, benefits, or legal protections. In developing countries, a significant portion of women’s work is in the informal sector—selling goods in markets, domestic work, or agricultural labor—where wages are low and instability is high.
The Burden of Unpaid Care Work
Another major issue exacerbating poverty among women is the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work. Women spend an average of three times more hours than men on unpaid labor, including childcare, elder care, and household chores. This limits their ability to pursue full-time employment, career advancement, or education, reinforcing the cycle of poverty.
Without adequate government policies such as affordable childcare, paid parental leave, or flexible work arrangements, many women are forced to choose between earning a livelihood and fulfilling caregiving responsibilities.
Limited Access to Education and Financial Resources
Education is one of the most effective tools for lifting people out of poverty, yet millions of girls and women around the world are denied access to quality education. Early marriage, cultural norms, and lack of investment in girls’ education contribute to lower literacy rates and limited job opportunities for women.
Furthermore, women face barriers in accessing financial resources such as credit, loans, and land ownership. In many countries, laws and societal norms prevent women from owning property or securing business loans, limiting their ability to start businesses or build financial independence.
Gender-Based Violence and Economic Dependency
Gender-based violence (GBV) is both a cause and consequence of women’s poverty. Domestic violence, workplace harassment, and human trafficking hinder women’s ability to participate in the workforce or maintain financial stability. Women who experience abuse are often financially dependent on their abusers, making it difficult to leave dangerous situations and seek economic independence.
Climate Change and Economic Instability
Environmental factors also play a role in deepening poverty among women. Climate change disproportionately affects women in rural and low-income communities, where they are often responsible for securing food, water, and energy for their families. Natural disasters, droughts, and economic downturns hit women harder, as they have fewer financial resources and support networks to recover from crises.
Conclusion
Addressing the disproportionate impact of poverty on women requires systemic change, including equal pay, investment in education, access to financial resources, and policies that support working mothers. Governments, businesses, and society must work together to break down the barriers that keep women trapped in poverty. Achieving gender equality is not just a matter of justice—it is essential for economic growth, community development, and a more equitable world.
