International Women’s Day is a global day held on 8th March to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
This year’s theme is ‘DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality’.
IWD has been observed since the early 1900s when great unrest and critical debate were occurring amongst women.
Women’s oppression and inequality were triggering women to become more vocal and active in campaigning for change.
For over a century, courageous women have been advocating for the rights of upcoming generations of women. International Women’s Day is a day to showcase the progress women have made in achieving gender equality.
According to the UN, work in artificial intelligence has only 22% of women globally. A survey of women journalists from 125 countries found that 73% had suffered online violence in the course of their work.
Women have made untold contributions to the digital world. Today, there is a persistent gender gap in digital access that keeps women from unlocking technology’s full potential.
Their underrepresentation in STEM education and careers remains a major barrier to their participation in tech design and governance. And the persistent threat of online gender-based violence often forces them out of the digital spaces they do occupy.
During this year’s celebration, governments and private sectors are being called on to make the digital world safer and more inclusive.
We can all challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and seek out inclusion. Not just today, but every day!
BY NKATHA WAINAINA