Pan-African ICT body, Technology Information Confederation (TICON) Africa has introduced a new initiative to celebrate and empower women in technology. Dubbed the “Women in ICT Chapter”, the initiative aims to create an inclusive environment that nurtures professional growth, leadership development, and networking opportunities for women in ICT throughout Africa.
“With Africa witnessing a rapid surge in ICT adoption, TICON Africa acknowledges the pivotal role of women in driving innovation and growth in this dynamic industry,” the Pan-African ICT body said in a statement. “Establishing the Women in ICT Chapter signifies TICON Africa’s commitment to empowering women, addressing challenges, and providing opportunities for their advancement in the ICT sector.”
Despite progress, African women in technology face challenges such as limited access to education and training, cultural barriers, and gender biases. TICON Africa will collaborate with stakeholders to implement targeted initiatives to address these challenges. The body is committed to championing gender equality and women’s empowerment in the African ICT industry, paving the way for a more prosperous and equitable digital Africa.
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The Women in ICT Chapter collaborates with relevant departments and initiatives within TICON Africa and external organizations to amplify impact and support common objectives. Membership is open to all women in Africa interested in furthering the objectives of the initiative through TICON Africa.
The vital role of women in the African ICT industry will be one of the primary focuses at the TICON Africa Conference 2024.
The conference will be hosted by the ICT Association of Kenya (ICTAK) in Mombasa, Kenya from 25-27 September under the theme “Advancing ICT Solutions for Sustainable Development in Africa” —highlighting how African ICT can address unique challenges for economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The theme will also explore sub-themes including improving digital infrastructure, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) & Big Data, and tackling cybersecurity for Africa.
Simultaneously, the conference will also through the “TICON Africa Awards” celebrate outstanding industry professionals and tech innovators who have boosted their country’s and Africa’s ICT industry, making contributions that have progressed technology and communication sectors in Africa —and created new opportunities for its people.
The awards will be bestowed on Africa’s leading ICT minds at a time when the industry is undergoing rapid change with the advent of new technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, according to Dr. Jannie Zaaiman, Secretary General of TICON Africa.
“The ever-changing landscape of technology is a key aspect of what will be navigated at our conference, so it makes perfect sense to reward those who are already excelling in advancing ICT for our beautiful continent and its people,” said Dr. Zaaiman in a statement.
Awards will be granted in the categories of, ICT Young Professional of the Year, ICT Professional of the Year, and Tech Business Leader of the Year.
Nominations (nomination form) are open until August 30th, 2024 —to all ICT professionals currently working in TICON Africa member countries, which are Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Zambia, Rwanda, Uganda, and Lesotho. All nominated candidates must have work or industry contributions completed during 2023/2024.
