Story by Fairstars Mukungurutse
THE Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services has held a roundtable discussion with leading women from the business sector, focusing on digital inclusion and the role of women in Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
The engagement, held in Harare on Monday, brought together participants from the private sector who shared experiences and called for stronger collaboration between Government, the private sector and academia in developing policy frameworks that support female innovators.
Deputy president of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce, Mrs Josephine Takundwa, said there was a need to integrate ICT and STEM education into the curriculum from an early age.
“One of the key priorities for women in the private sector is to see ICT and STEM fully mainstreamed into the education system from the lower levels,” she said.
Founder of Mustard Seed Advisory, Mrs Petronella Dhitima, said women have significant opportunities in the digital space but require a supportive enabling environment.
“Women can take up space in the digital world, as there are many avenues to establish meaningful businesses. What is needed is an environment that equips women with adequate knowledge to harness the potential of ICT in their communities,” she said.
The Government reiterated its commitment to expanding digital literacy and promoting innovation towards a more inclusive society.
Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, said women play a crucial role in advancing the national digital inclusion agenda.
“Women have a great part to play in the digital inclusion agenda of our country. We aim to achieve a 100 percent digital literacy rate by 2030, and this can only be realised if women are not left behind,” she said.
The dialogue forms part of Government’s broader strategy to bridge the digital gender gap and ensure inclusive participation in the digital economy.
