Ghanaian Tech Leader Earns Continental Recognition
As the world continues to reflect on the significance of International Girls in ICT Day, Ghanaian technology entrepreneur Ethel Cofie is receiving recognition that highlights the growing influence of African women in innovation and financial technology.
Cofie has been named among the 2026 Top Ten Women to Watch in Fintech, a list published by Tech Review Africa to celebrate women driving change across Africa’s rapidly evolving digital economy. Her inclusion places her alongside influential innovators such as May Chan and Nkiru Uwaje, whose work is helping shape the future of fintech across the continent.
At a time when Africa’s technology sector is experiencing rapid growth, the recognition underscores the impact Ghanaian women are making on the continental stage and the increasing role women are playing in transforming financial technology.
Ethel Cofie’s Journey in Technology
For many within Ghana’s technology ecosystem, Ethel Cofie has long been a familiar name.
As the founder and Chief Executive Officer of EDEL Technology Consulting, she has built a reputation as a respected technology strategist and digital transformation expert. Through her work, she has helped organizations adopt technology solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen operations, and support growth.
Her influence extends beyond Ghana, with her consultancy serving clients across Africa and Europe. Over the years, she has earned recognition for her contributions to technology and business innovation, becoming one of the continent’s leading advocates for digital transformation.
Ethel Cofie’s Journey in Technology
For many within Ghana’s technology ecosystem, Ethel Cofie has long been a familiar name.
As the founder and Chief Executive Officer of EDEL Technology Consulting, she has built a reputation as a respected technology strategist and digital transformation expert. Through her work, she has helped organizations adopt technology solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen operations, and support growth.
Her influence extends beyond Ghana, with her consultancy serving clients across Africa and Europe. Over the years, she has earned recognition for her contributions to technology and business innovation, becoming one of the continent’s leading advocates for digital transformation.
Beyond her business achievements, Cofie has remained committed to creating opportunities for women seeking careers in technology.
Empowering Women Through Technology
One of Cofie’s most significant contributions to Africa’s technology ecosystem has been the creation of Women in Tech Africa.
Founded to address the gender gap in technology, the organization has grown into a leading network supporting women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through mentorship, networking opportunities, leadership programmes, and advocacy initiatives, the platform has helped women across the continent access opportunities and build careers in technology.
Its mission closely aligns with the goals of International Girls in ICT Day, which encourages girls and young women to explore careers in information and communication technology.
Cofie’s inclusion in the 2026 Top Ten Women to Watch in Fintech list therefore reflects not only her business accomplishments but also her efforts to make the technology sector more inclusive.
Why the Recognition Matters
Fintech has become one of the most influential sectors within Africa’s digital economy. Across the continent, innovators are developing solutions that expand access to financial services, improve payment systems, and support businesses and consumers alike.
Recognition through the Top Ten Women to Watch in Fintech list highlights individuals whose work is helping shape the future of the industry.
For Ghana, Cofie’s presence on the list is particularly significant because it showcases the country’s growing contribution to Africa’s technology ecosystem. It also brings visibility to the achievements of Ghanaian women in fields that have traditionally seen lower female representation.
May Chan and the Rise of Blockchain Innovation
Joining Cofie on the list is May Chan, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of HashPack.
Chan has established herself as a leading figure in blockchain technology and digital assets. Through her work, she has helped develop tools that allow users to engage with decentralized technologies and emerging digital financial systems.
Her recognition reflects the growing importance of blockchain innovation and the expanding opportunities available within the fintech sector.
Nkiru Uwaje’s Work in Financial Infrastructure
Another notable figure on the list is Nkiru Uwaje, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of MANSA.
Uwaje is helping address one of Africa’s long-standing financial challenges: cross-border payments. Her work focuses on developing infrastructure that makes transactions more efficient, accessible, and affordable across markets.
As African economies become increasingly interconnected, innovations in payment systems are playing an important role in supporting trade, investment, and economic growth.
Inspiring the Next Generation
While the achievements of Ethel Cofie, May Chan, and Nkiru Uwaje deserve celebration, their stories carry a broader significance.
They represent a generation of women demonstrating that leadership in technology and fintech is defined by innovation, expertise, and determination rather than gender. Through entrepreneurship and advocacy, they are helping shape industries that will influence Africa’s future for years to come.
For young girls across Ghana and the wider continent, these women provide powerful examples of what can be achieved through education, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace technology.
As Africa’s fintech sector continues to expand, the contributions of leaders such as Ethel Cofie will remain essential. Her recognition among the 2026 Top Ten Women to Watch in Fintech is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the growing impact Ghanaian women are making in the global technology space.
At a time when more girls are being encouraged to explore opportunities in ICT, Cofie’s story serves as a reminder that today’s aspiring innovators can become tomorrow’s industry leaders.