Study of the Gender Gap in Information and Communications Technology Access in Rural Zamfara State

The digital gender gap amplifies existing inequalities for women in rural Nigeria, limiting their access to information, economic opportunities, financial services, and social participation in the digital era. This study examines the gender gap in information and communications technology (ICT) access and use among rural communities in Zamfara State, focusing on Gusau, Tsafe, and Birnin Magaji Local Government Areas. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with 240 respondents equally divided between men and women completing structured questionnaires on ICT ownership, usage frequency, and perceived barriers. Data were analysed using independent samples t-tests, chi-square tests, and frequency distributions. Findings reveal that women in rural Zamfara own mobile phones at rates 38 percentage points lower than men, and those who do own phones use primarily call and messaging features, with limited access to internet-enabled services. Literacy constraints, financial limitations, male-controlled household purchasing decisions, and cultural restrictions on women's technology use are the leading barriers. Women who have participated in digital literacy training programmes demonstrate significantly higher ICT usage rates and self-efficacy. Recommendations include gender-sensitive digital literacy programmes, affordable device schemes for rural women, and community dialogues targeting norms around women's technology access. Keywords: digital gender gap, ICT access, rural women, Zamfara State, North West Nigeria