Digital technology use and adoption in informal entrepreneurship: evidence from Okere District, Ghana

The integration of digital technologies (DT) into informal entrepreneurship (IE) is increasingly recognized as a critical driver of economic productivity, market accessibility and operational efficiency, particularly in developing economies. Despite their ubiquity, digital tools remain underutilized in the informal entrepreneurial sector due to infrastructural, educational and economic challenges. This study addressed the gap in understanding the usage, needs, challenges and factors influencing technology adoption (TA) among informal entrepreneurs in Okere District, Ghana. Anchored in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which posits that technology adoption is influenced by Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU), the research also drew on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory to provide a more comprehensive understanding of adoption behaviour. Eleven (11) informal entrepreneurs were purposively and conveniently selected and interviewed to provide in-depth insights into their experiences with DT using a qualitative approach. Findings revealed that mobile phones were predominantly used for communication, marketing, and financial transactions. Key DT needs include training in digital literacy, affordable and reliable network connectivity, and user-friendly applications tailored to the informal sector. Challenges such as high cost of devices and internet services as well as online fraud were identified. Factors influencing TA include business expansion opportunities, efficiency and convenience. The study concluded that while DT offered significant opportunities for growth and efficiency, overcoming barriers to their adoption requires interventions such as digital training. A limitation of the study is its localized sample, which may affect the generalizability of findings. Policymakers were urged to foster a supportive ecosystem by addressing infrastructural deficits and creating incentives for TA.