Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
THE Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, has underscored the importance of leveraging technology to close the gender gap and foster inclusive development.
Speaking at the recent High-Level Dialogue on Enhancing Women and Youth Participation in Governance, organised by Hivos, Senator Mutsvangwa emphasised that women’s political and economic participation is crucial for the nation’s development and prosperity.
“As we all know, technology is rapidly reshaping our world. It offers unprecedented opportunities for women to engage in the economy, break barriers, and claim their rightful place in leadership roles.
“It is crucial that we harness the power of technology to bridge the gap between women and men and promote inclusive development,” said Senator Mutsvangwa.
Senator Mutsvangwa stressed the importance of policies that reflect the realities faced by women, ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into economic and political frameworks.
“Digital technology has the potential to reach and empower women in remote and marginalised communities. We must work to ensure that all women have access to digital tools and resources,” she said.
Digital platforms can help break down social and cultural barriers that limit women’s participation in economic, social, and political spheres.
Furthermore, they provide women with new opportunities for economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.
Senator Mutsvangwa acknowledged that there are barriers preventing women from fully leveraging digital technology and AI.
“We must address issues such as access to technology, affordability, and the skills gap that often hinders women from participating in these essential areas.
“Together, we can devise actionable solutions to dismantle these barriers. I am particularly pleased that financial institutions and network providers are with us today. Your participation is crucial as we explore the connection between finance, digital technology, and politics,” she said.
She highlighted that access to financial resources is a key enabler for women, whether in political campaigns or business ventures, and stressed the need to ensure that financial products are designed with women’s needs in mind, facilitating their transition from the margins to the mainstream.
“She therefore called upon all stakeholders to address the existing digital divide between women and men and to ensure that women have the skills and knowledge to effectively utilise digital technology.
“Let us work towards creating safe and inclusive digital spaces that also protect women from online harassment and violence. Remember that empowering women is not just an objective; it is a necessity for achieving our national vision of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
“As we embark on this dialogue, let us commit ourselves to a future where women are not only included but are leading the charge toward sustainable development,” she said.
Gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment continue to be a priority as the Government, through the
Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, and its partners, seeks to capacitate women to help them reach their full potential.
Over the years, the Government has recognised the indispensable role of women in economic growth and societal progress.
Zimbabwe is actively implementing comprehensive policies and initiatives to foster an environment conducive to women’s full participation and meaningful contribution to the nation’s development trajectory.
These multifaceted strategies encompass various sectors and dimensions of society, ranging from economic empowerment programmes to educational initiatives and legal reforms.
