Women in ICT, Zimbabwe Conference: Advancing Cybersecurity and Digital Transformation in Africa
On 7 March 2025, in Harare, Zimbabwe, the Women in ICT Zimbabwe Conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore critical themes shaping Africa’s digital future. The event highlighted the continent’s growing role in the world of data, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and citizen development, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities that come with these advancements.
With the presence of the Honourable Minister of ICT, Tatenda Mavetera, the conference served as a powerful platform to recognise the significance of women’s contributions in technology and to outline strategic initiatives for Africa’s digital future.
The Women in ICT Zimbabwe Conference featured powerful insights from influential speakers across various domains. Hon. Tatenda Mavetera highlighted inclusion efforts through the National ICT and Gender Policies, while Dr Beaullah Chirume emphasised social capital as a key factor in success – with additional emphasis placed on the inclusion of Arts alongside the other STEM categories, introducing STEAM. Dumisani Nomagugu Nkala encouraged young girls to engage in tech, as it transforms career trajectories. Victoria Nxumalo showcased her impact at Girls in STEM Trust, and Jacqui Muller provided a career roadmap for women in AI and Automation, reinforcing that there is space for everyone, no matter the discipline. Eng. Prudence Kadebu demonstrated how data analytics drives ICT research, and Dr Eng. Fungai Jacqueline Kiwa addressed executives on ethical AI for strategic leadership.
Tatenda Tsikira delivered an eye-opening talk on digital security for women, ensuring they stay protected online. Maria Chinomwe, a digital transformation expert, shared her inspiring journey of perseverance, while Nyasha Mutetwa, a chemist-turned-ICT leader, discussed bursaries, sponsorships, and her innovative approach to funding women’s empowerment. The conference provided actionable insights and a strong call to advance women’s roles in technology, leadership, and innovation.
The congregation of men and women at this event highlighted a few key focus areas.
Cybersecurity: A Growing Priority for Africa
One of the conference’s most pressing themes was cybersecurity, as Africa has increasingly become a top target for cyberattacks. With rapid digital transformation across the continent, businesses, governments, and individuals are at heightened risk of cyber threats.
However, Africa is not merely a victim in this space – it is also at the forefront of championing cybersecurity on the global stage. The African Union’s digital security strategies aim to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring that African nations are not only securing their digital economies but also setting global standards in cybersecurity governance.
This is critical for Africa’s economic and digital sovereignty. Robust cybersecurity measures will protect financial systems, critical infrastructure, and personal data, ultimately enabling sustainable digital growth.
Digital Transformation and the Role of Citizen Development
Another major focus of the conference was the push to transition subject matter expertise into technical subject matter expertise through citizen development.
This movement is gaining traction with low-code and no-code technologies, which allow professionals with minimal programming experience to develop applications, automate processes, integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and introduce data analytics into business operations. By empowering non-technical users to create digital solutions, Africa is democratising technology, fostering innovation across industries, and accelerating digital adoption.
The emphasis on citizen development aligns with the continent’s broader goal of bridging the digital skills gap. With women playing a key role in ICT, the rise of low-code tools provides them with an opportunity to lead digital transformation efforts, reducing traditional barriers to technology careers.
Government Commitment to Innovation and Technology
The presence of Minister of ICT Tatenda Mavetera reinforced the Zimbabwean government’s commitment to technology-driven innovation. The Minister emphasised that digital transformation is central to national development, underlining the need for policies that support technological innovation, cybersecurity, and inclusive digital growth.
This government backing is significant as it signals increased investment in infrastructure, skills development, and digital policies that will shape the country’s ICT sector. Strong governmental support is essential to ensuring sustained digital progress and fostering a thriving technology ecosystem that includes women-led initiatives.
Overcoming Barriers to Digital Transformation
While connectivity remains a challenge in many African countries, the conference shed light on other barriers that hinder digital transformation, such as:
- Limited access to digital skills training, particularly for women and marginalised communities.
- High costs of digital infrastructure, slowing down widespread technology adoption.
- Policy and regulatory gaps that create obstacles for digital entrepreneurship and innovation.
Despite these challenges, Africa is finding creative ways to accelerate digital transformation. Innovative problem-solving techniques, coupled with increased investment in ICT, are helping the continent bypass traditional limitations and develop tailored solutions for its unique challenges.
The role of women in ICT is crucial in shaping these solutions, as they bring diverse perspectives to problem-solving and drive inclusivity in the tech sector.
The Women in ICT Zimbabwe Conference has left an undeniable mark on Africa’s cybersecurity and digital transformation agenda. As Africa continues to position itself as a global leader in digital innovation, the insights shared at this conference will play a crucial role in shaping policy, education, and industry development.
With a focus on cyber resilience, citizen development, and government-backed innovation, the event has set the stage for a more secure, inclusive, and technologically empowered future for Africa.
Now, the challenge lies in translating these insights into tangible actions, ensuring that Africa’s digital transformation is not just a vision, but a reality.
