Paper short abstract:

We explore Zambia, where urban construction is experiencing exponential growth, and women, previously excluded, are making use of social networking to become developers in their own right.

Paper long abstract:

Rapid urbanisation is taking place in many cities in Africa alongside the growth of digital social media use. We explore Zambia, where urban construction is experiencing exponential growth, where women, previously excluded, are making use of social networking to become developers in their own right. This is evident from the growing populations and the expansion of cities as can be seen from the traffic gridlocks, businesses and at the very heart the construction of new and modern structures. Women's participation is supported through the availability of land which for a long time lay untapped, docile and undeveloped. It is Zambian women's ability to bypass traditional hierarchical gender structures by using digital social media that has enabled them to take part in urban development. And now suddenly, it is as if a sleeping Lioness is awoken, and at every turn in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, new structures are springing up including those led by women developers. New social media platforms are allowing educational information regarding construction materials, land availability, cost and a discussion on negotiation practices including the exchange of ideas related to modern design that all enhance and further women's standing in their society. Previously this was a male domain, but new pockets of urban development, including those led by women are transforming the landscape. While this is encouraging, women continue to face considerable difficulties because of unemployment, accessing loans and low incomes when in work. However, digital social media seems to be helping in helping women forge new realities for themselves.