As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation continue to reshape industries globally, new findings suggest that these technological advancements could exacerbate existing gender-based inequalities. A recent report by Caribou and Genesis Analytics highlights that more women than men in Africa’s outsourcing sector are at risk of being replaced by automation and AI by 2030.
The report reveals a concerning trend: on average, women are 10% more vulnerable to the negative impacts of automation than men in the same sector. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that many women are employed in junior and lower-paying roles, which are the most susceptible to automation.
However, with the global AI market growing exponentially and expected to increase fivefold in the next five years, this vulnerability could leave women even more exposed to job displacement.
In Africa’s outsourcing sector alone, 40% of human tasks are at risk of automation. While AI presents significant opportunities for economic growth, enhanced workflows and cost reduction, it also raises the risk of mass job displacement. This is particularly worrisome for women and youth as they statistically occupy junior roles that are more easily automated.
“Junior roles, which are most common in the sector, are highly susceptible to automation, with over half of tasks automatable. Women, who disproportionately occupy these roles, face a 10% higher automation risk than men,” the report says.
To address this issue, the report calls for proactive steps to mitigate the risks of AI integration. It suggests implementing responsible AI practices and offering targeted skills training to help workers adapt to new roles. By upskilling the workforce and aligning training with emerging technological demands, women and other vulnerable groups can better navigate the changing landscape.
“To prepare young Africans for an AI-driven workforce, foundational knowledge in AI, proficiency in technical tools, and robust soft skills—such as adaptability, communication, and emotional intelligence—will be indispensable,” the report reads.
As Africa embraces the digital revolution, it’s essential to ensure that women are not left behind. To explore how women can thrive in this digital transformation, join the WomenIN Digital event at Converge Africa, a premier gathering designed to empower female tech professionals. Running alongside the event from 6-8 May 2025, the WomenIN Digital Transformation inclusive program provides opportunities for networking, inspiration and creating new pathways for women in the digital world.
The report reveals a concerning trend: on average, women are 10% more vulnerable to the negative impacts of automation than men in the same sector. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that many women are employed in junior and lower-paying roles, which are the most susceptible to automation.
However, with the global AI market growing exponentially and expected to increase fivefold in the next five years, this vulnerability could leave women even more exposed to job displacement.
In Africa’s outsourcing sector alone, 40% of human tasks are at risk of automation. While AI presents significant opportunities for economic growth, enhanced workflows and cost reduction, it also raises the risk of mass job displacement. This is particularly worrisome for women and youth as they statistically occupy junior roles that are more easily automated.
“Junior roles, which are most common in the sector, are highly susceptible to automation, with over half of tasks automatable. Women, who disproportionately occupy these roles, face a 10% higher automation risk than men,” the report says.
To address this issue, the report calls for proactive steps to mitigate the risks of AI integration. It suggests implementing responsible AI practices and offering targeted skills training to help workers adapt to new roles. By upskilling the workforce and aligning training with emerging technological demands, women and other vulnerable groups can better navigate the changing landscape.
“To prepare young Africans for an AI-driven workforce, foundational knowledge in AI, proficiency in technical tools, and robust soft skills—such as adaptability, communication, and emotional intelligence—will be indispensable,” the report reads.
As Africa embraces the digital revolution, it’s essential to ensure that women are not left behind. To explore how women can thrive in this digital transformation, join the WomenIN Digital event at Converge Africa, a premier gathering designed to empower female tech professionals. Running alongside the event from 6-8 May 2025, the WomenIN Digital Transformation inclusive program provides opportunities for networking, inspiration and creating new pathways for women in the digital world.
