The She-Tech Forum 2024, a key event within the Connected Africa Summit, highlighted the essential link between women’s leadership in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and initiatives in renewable energy and climate change. This forum convened dynamic speakers from various sectors, including government, civil society, the private sector, academia, and development organizations, emphasizing the critical role of women in shaping Africa’s digital future and advancing sustainable development goals.
The forum highlighted the progress women have made in breaking barriers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, significant gaps persist in female representation at leadership levels. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), women make up only 20-30% of the ICT workforce in Africa, with even fewer in leadership roles. Similarly, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that women constitute only 32% of the global renewable energy sector workforce, with an even smaller percentage in management positions.
In Africa, these gaps are due to societal stereotypes, insufficient early intervention to encourage girls in STEM, domestic pressures, lack of supportive environments, poor enforcement of gender equity policies, and a shortage of female STEM role models.
Despite these challenges, the She-Tech Forum showcased the resilience and potential of women in STEM, providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment. It highlighted women-led initiatives driving change at the intersection of ICT and various fields, including healthcare, education, climate, and renewable energy.
Africa is at a crucial crossroads where addressing climate change is deeply connected to technological advancement and economic growth. The intersection of women’s leadership in STEM and renewable energy is vital for sustainable development. For instance, the Economic Commission for Africa’s (ECA) Connected African Girls Coding Camp and Climate Change Adaptation Hackathon saw young engineers and innovators create projects using emerging technologies to fight climate change and build resilience.
Research indicates that projects with women in decision-making roles are more likely to succeed and positively impact communities. Women offer unique perspectives and approaches to problem-solving, characterized by empathy, collaboration, and holistic thinking. These qualities are invaluable in addressing complex challenges like climate change and developing innovative solutions for renewable energy and resilience-building.
By leveraging ICT tools and platforms, women leaders can enhance the impact of renewable energy initiatives. From community-driven energy projects to data-driven climate adaptation, technology enables scalable and sustainable solutions. Promoting women’s leadership helps address disparities and ensures inclusive development, empowering individuals and unlocking the full potential of societies.
Closing the gender gap in STEM careers is a significant challenge requiring collective effort. African governments must create environments that support more women in STEM and decision-making positions. Additionally, they must bring together stakeholders to pool resources, expertise, ideas, and funding toward common goals.
The She-Tech Forum, coinciding with International Girls in ICT Day under the theme of “Leadership,” reminds us of the need for strong female role models in STEM. As we celebrate women’s achievements in technology, we must also recognize their crucial role in driving progress toward a sustainable and resilient future.
Fostering collaboration, mentorship, and investment in women’s leadership across sectors is essential. By harnessing the collective talents and creativity of all, regardless of gender, we can pave the way toward a more equitable, prosperous, and resilient Africa.
