By Wadzanai Chihombori-Ndlovu
In a country where women have long been underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), a remarkable shift is underway.
This April, as the world celebrates Girls in ICT Day, the theme of “Leadership” is particularly fitting, as Zimbabwe’s trailblazing women are breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
The Global Challenge and Zimbabwe’s Determination
The global statistics paint a concerning picture – women now fill only 40% of high-skill occupations worldwide, and their participation in ICT-related fields remains alarmingly low. Zimbabwe, however, is determined to defy this trend.
“For far too long, we’ve seen women relegated to junior or support roles in the tech industry, with little opportunity for advancement,” laments Natsai Mutizwa, a software engineer and founder of a local tech startup. “But that is changing, and I’m thrilled to be a part of a growing movement of Zimbabwean women stepping up as leaders in STEM.”
Inspiring Stories: Dr Chido Moyo and Beyond
Indeed, the country has seen a surge of female role models in recent years. Dr Chido Moyo, a renowned computer scientist at the University of Zimbabwe, is one such trailblazer. “I remember when I first started in this field, I was often the only woman in the room,” she recounts. “But I never let that discourage me. Instead, I focused on excelling in my work and mentoring the next generation of young women.”
Moyo’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her research on artificial intelligence and its applications in rural development has earned her international recognition, and she has become a sought-after speaker at STEM conferences around the world.
But Dr. Moyo is just one example. Other Zimbabwean women are making significant contributions to ICT. Tapiwa Nyikadzino co-founded “Her Tech Space,” providing training and mentorship programs for aspiring female coders. Ntombizodwa Magure, an ICT engineer, developed an award-winning mobile application that connects farmers with agricultural information and resources. Fungai Makungu, a data scientist, is using her expertise to analyse climate data and develop solutions for sustainable agriculture in Zimbabwe. These are just a handful of talented young women who are shaping the future of ICT in Zimbabwe. Their stories serve as powerful inspiration for the next generation and demonstrate the immense potential of women in this field.
Overcoming Challenges: Bridging the Gender Gap in Education
The journey to the top has not been easy. Women in ICT often face systemic barriers, from unconscious biases to a lack of access to funding and resources. Undeterred, Zimbabwean women are stepping up to address these challenges head-on.
“One of the biggest issues we face is the gender gap in STEM education, particularly in rural areas,” explains Rumbidzai Chikukwa, the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young girls in tech. “Many girls simply don’t have the same opportunities as their male counterparts, and that needs to change.”
Chikukwa’s organization has been working tirelessly to bridge this gap, partnering with local schools and communities to provide coding workshops, mentorship programs, and scholarships for girls interested in STEM subjects. The impact of these efforts is already being felt, with the percentage of women enrolled in ICT-related degree programs at Zimbabwean universities increasing by 15% over the past five years.
Zimbabwe’s National Efforts: Leading the Way in Africa
The gender gap in STEM fields is a global challenge, but Zimbabwe’s progress stands out as a beacon of hope. According to the African Development Bank, the country’s female enrolment in tertiary STEM programs is the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa, at 47% – a remarkable achievement compared to the continental average of just 30%.
“Zimbabwe has always been a leader in women’s empowerment, and this is reflected in our STEM fields as well,” says Tariro Mupaso, the Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development. “But we know there is still more work to be done, especially in reaching girls in rural areas and ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive in these industries.”
The ministry has recently launched a nationwide initiative to establish STEM centres in remote communities, providing access to cutting-edge technology, mentorship, and skills training for young women. Additionally, the government has introduced tax incentives for companies that prioritize gender diversity in their STEM hiring and promotion practices.
A Call to Action: Encouraging the Next Generation
“We want to send a clear message that women’s leadership in STEM is not only crucial for our country’s economic development, but it is also essential for building a more equitable …and innovative future.
This Girls in ICT Day, we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women, and the strides Zimbabwe is making towards a more inclusive tech sector.
But the journey continues. By dismantling remaining barriers, fostering leadership development through mentorship programs, and promoting a culture that embraces diversity and inclusion, Zimbabwe can unlock the full potential of its women in STEM.
This will not only empower the next generation of girls to become the future leaders of ICT, but also propel the nation towards a brighter, more technologically advanced tomorrow.
