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| Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Tigo and UN Women signed by Tigo CEO, Kamal Okba and the UN Women Tanzania Representative, Ms. Hodan Addou to empower and equip young Tanzanian women and girls with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and digital literacy skills. |
This collaboration, announced at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the two organizations, aligns with UN Women’s African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI), which aims to train and empower women and girls aged 17-25 to take up studies and careers in the information, communication, and technology (ICT), education and coding sectors.
Statistics indicate that approximately 90% of future jobs globally require ICT skills. However, enrolment in science subjects shows a significant gender gap, with fewer girls than boys participating, and women are markedly underrepresented in science and engineering professions.
At the MOU signing ceremony, Ms. Hodan Addou, UN Women Tanzania Representative, emphasized the importance of integrating young women and girls into the ICT sector as a necessary element to increase women's representation in STEM-related fields: “When women participate in ICT, they bring diverse perspectives that are crucial for innovation and improved outcomes. This partnership with Tigo is not just about levelling the playing field but crafting an environment where women have equal opportunities to learn, excel, and lead.”
Tigo CEO, Kamal Okba, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "In a world driven by innovation and digital connectivity, it is imperative that we leave no one behind. Through AGCCI, Binti Digitali, we are determined to close the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Tigo's commitment to providing training on digital literacy, coding, and robotics, along with the donation of high-speed 4G and 5G internet connectivity, reflects our dedication to a more inclusive and digitally empowered future."
The collaboration will focus on developing coding, robotics, and digital entrepreneurship skills for young women and girls, both in and out of school. The program will include advanced IT training through coding camps, mentorship programs, and incubation with tech-driven startups, aiming to enhance their employability, entrepreneurship abilities, and access to further education for economic empowerment.
“Engaging the private sector is key to expanding opportunities and providing tangible role models for girls aspiring to tech careers,” Ms. Addou added, highlighting the strategic importance of this partnership in promoting digital inclusion and career development for young women in Tanzania.
Kamal further emphasized Tigo's dedication to fostering a conducive environment for young women and girls to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. "This collaboration with UN Women under the African Girl Can Code Initiative marks a significant step towards impacting more girls and young women, contributing to the reduction of skills gap in the broader digital economy agenda. Tigo's history of empowering girls and young women in Tanzania, evident in our successful partnerships and initiatives, underscores our commitment to fostering positive change through technology and education. Together, we can bring about positive success in the telecommunications sector, because we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion, and this collaboration is a testament to our commitment to creating equal opportunities for all."
The partnership between UN Women and Tigo signifies a strategic alliance between the public and private sectors, working together to empower women and girls, break down barriers, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in Tanzania's technology-driven industries.
About UN Women
UN Women is the UN organization dedicated to gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women was established as a global champion for women and girls to accelerate progress in meeting their needs worldwide. www.unwomen.org; africa.unwomen.org
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