ISSN 2736-1578
African Journal of Gender and Women Studies | Vol. 11, No. 11, November 2026 | pp. 239–252
DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJGWS/001362
Article Type: Research Article
Title: Gender, Financial Literacy, and Digital Cryptocurrency Adoption Among Young African Women
Names of Author: Efua Mensah-Bonsu¹ & Daniel O’Sullivan²
Author's Affiliation: ¹Department of Finance, University of Ghana Business School, Legon, Accra, Ghana; ²School of Economics and Finance, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Peer-to-peer cryptocurrency networks and stablecoin payment applications have gained rapid traction across urban African markets as young people seek alternatives to currency depreciation, high remittance fees, and restrictive traditional banking systems. While fintech marketers portray decentralized finance as inherently democratizing, speculative volatility, predatory online investment schemes, and male-dominated crypto trading communities create distinct financial vulnerabilities for young women. Simultaneously, female crypto educators and women-only blockchain collectives are emerging to promote cautious financial literacy and cross-border business payments. This paper explores how young professional and entrepreneurial women navigate cryptocurrency adoption in Accra, Lagos, and London. Utilizing feminist political economy and behavioral sociology, the study draws on 42 interviews with female crypto users and educators. We argue for consumer protection regulations alongside peer-led digital financial education.
Keywords: Cryptocurrency, financial literacy, digital finance, feminist political economy, young women, blockchain, Ghana, Nigeria
Manuscript Timeline: Received: October 06, 2026; Revised: November 04, 2026; Accepted: November 08, 2026; Published: November 16, 2026.
Citation: Mensah-Bonsu, E., & O’Sullivan, D. (2026). Gender, Financial Literacy, and Digital Cryptocurrency Adoption Among Young African Women. African Journal of Gender and Women Studies, 11(11), 239–252. DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJGWS/001362