MENA Observatory on Responsible AI’s Post

WDN Zimbabwe joins the world in commemorating International Day of Democracy by pushing for AI-driven policies that promote equality for all, empowering women and marginalized groups through inclusive governance. Unlocking the Potential of Artificial Intelligence to Amplify Women's Voices and Foster a More Equitable Society. Democracy in the digital age demands gender-responsive policies that prioritize human rights and social justice. Let us leverage Artificial Intelligence to amplify women's voices and shape a more equitable world. The intersection of technology and governance presents an unprecedented opportunity to address the systemic inequalities that have long marginalized women and marginalized groups. Key Principles; 1. Inclusive decision-making processes that integrate women's perspectives and needs. 2. AI-driven policies that promote equal opportunities, rights and representation. 3. Protection of women's digital rights and online safety. 4. Enhanced digital literacy and access to technology for women. Call to Action: Join the Women's Democracy Network in advocating for gender-responsive policy making that harnesses the power of AI to; 1. Amplify women's voices in governance. 2. Address gender-based violence and discrimination. 3. Promote economic empowerment and equal opportunities. Together, let us shape a democratic future where every woman and girl can thrive. #Action4Equality #AIForSocialGood #GoodGovernance #AIforHumanRights #GenderBiasInAI #WomenInLeader #InternationalDemocracyDay

As I advance my #BeMedigitalinclusion initiative throughout Africa, I am continuously confronted with the significant hurdles that women, girls, the youth, and disabled persons endure daily. Engaging at the grassroots level, I’ve witnessed first-hand the economic difficulties and barriers to access such as lack of devices, limited internet connectivity, and insufficient funding for entrepreneurs—especially African women. My experiences in 🇬🇭 have profoundly shaped my upcoming book, #SheDISRUPTS, which delves into what technology represents in Ghanaian contexts and explores socioeconomic issues, equity, and the daily challenges faced by women. I am thrilled to discuss these insights at the African AI Summit, sharing how innovative African women are utilising technology to expand and succeed every day through #BeMedigitalinclusion. Let’s commit to investing more in these brilliant minds to turn their dreams into reality. The future is indeed bright. #ai #Africa #esg #innovation #technology #women #stem

Arif Z., Executive Director, Commonwealth Businesswomen's Network C.I.C Keynote at Future Fest at Future Fest 2024. During his Keynote at Future Fest 2024. He talks about: VUCA Era: 🌍 Navigating Uncertainty: Arif discusses the global climate of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, emphasizing the need for strategic cooperation and development. The Commonwealth's Role: 🤝 A Force for Good: Highlighting the significance of the Commonwealth, a political association of 56 countries, as a powerful network for collaboration, especially for small countries on the front lines of climate change. Women's Economic Involvement: 👩💼 Driving Growth: Emphasizing the critical role of women in business and economic growth. Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2012: 🌐 Tech and Innovation: Reflecting on the pivotal discussions in Rwanda about expanding internet access and supporting technology growth and innovation. Youth Development Commitments: 🌱 Global Support: Encouraging the 150 countries' commitments to support youth development and urging individuals to seize local opportunities to build relationships, acquire knowledge, and expand their networks. Embracing VUCA: 💪 Opportunities Amid Challenges: Encouraging viewers to perceive volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity as opportunities rather than problems. #Commonwealth #VUCA #ArifZaman #GlobalDevelopment #WomenInBusiness #YouthDevelopment #TechInnovation #ClimateChange #EconomicGrowth #Networking #OpportunityInChallenge

Reflections from Addis! Last month, we had the pleasure of sharing our research on barriers and opportunities to women's economic empowerment and financial inclusion (WEE-FI) at the FinEquity Africa Annual Convening 2024. Born out of a desire to promote evidence-based decision-making, our research identifies barriers that are most relevant to different types of women in specific markets and makes recommendations about interventions that can address them. We shared insights into different segments of women in Ethiopia, and looked at similarities and differences in neighboring Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. While there are many barriers to WEE-FI, the good news is that there are also many opportunities for overcoming them...and the general sentiment in Addis was that we have the ability to go far in advancing WEE-FI if diverse sets of stakeholders continue to work together---and with---women to develop financial products and services that meet their unique needs. For more info on the barriers research, check out our newly re-vamped website https://lnkd.in/gBa2Mchv For more information, please read this blog post our colleague, Caroline Morrow, wrote about the event. https://lnkd.in/gC2BxUyk

Digital #inclusion in a digital economy. Women in business. According to sources of data: - In Africa, #women own or operate 54% of all small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) (Source: World Bank) - To close the #internet gender gap by 2030, 100m women per year will need the tools and access to start using the Internet (Source: GSMA) - The #digital economy makes up more than 15% of the global GDP and has grown 2.5 times faster over the previous ten years than the GDP of the physical world (Source: World Bank) How do we remove the barriers and build a level playing field for digital inclusion? Difficult, but necessary questions for founders and builders, asked by Letwin Mazarura - Thanks. #digitalization

Happy International Men's Day from AfriCDSA Today, we celebrate the role of men in building a stronger, more equitable society. As an organization committed to advancing data science, analytics, and technology across Africa, we recognize the power of data in shaping a future where every individual—regardless of gender—is empowered to thrive. At AfriCDSA, we believe in: -Data for Social Change: Harnessing the power of data to drive meaningful solutions to challenges men face, from mental health to career opportunities, and more. -Inclusive Leadership: Encouraging men to be leaders in their communities and workplaces—fostering environments where everyone can excel, regardless of gender. -Innovation and Empowerment: Empowering men to engage with technology and data analytics to unlock new opportunities, create solutions, and contribute to Africa’s digital transformation. On this International Men's Day, let’s celebrate the men who are driving positive change across our continent—whether through innovation, mentorship, or championing equality. We stand with you in the mission to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. #InternationalMensDay #DataForChange #Innovation #AfriCDSA #AfricanLeadership #Empowerment #TechForGood #PositiveMasculinity #GenderEquality #DataScience #Analytics

Beyond traditional gender roles, women are the fundamental pillars supporting the fabric of our society, ensuring stability and cohesion within households and communities. When equipped with education, financial independence, and equal employment opportunities, women show remarkable effectiveness in managing the responsibilities entrusted to them. Reflecting on insights from Jon Lomoy, Director of the OECD’s Development Co-operation Directorate, during his 2010 speech at the United Nations Development Co-operation Forum, it is evident that investing in women is not merely beneficial—it is crucial. Research supports that providing women with educational and economic opportunities leads to better health outcomes for children and enhanced family resilience. Additionally, a report by The Council on Foreign Relations on Women's Rights titled 'Growing Economies Through Gender Parity' predicts an impressive 23% rise in Nigeria's GDP—equivalent to $229 billion by 2025—if women participate in the economy at the same levels as men. The economic participation of women transcends issues of fairness to become a foundational element for sustainable growth and development. Granting women equal access to resources and opportunities transforms them into dynamic agents of change, unlocking a wealth of potential and innovation that can propel nations forward. This is why we are calling on fellow changemakers like ourselves, who are working on various challenges affecting women and men, especially those in rural areas, to join our Rural Community of Practice. This community is dedicated to implementing programmes in rural communities. We collaborate to exchange perspectives, share lessons learned, foster valuable connections, and cultivate partnerships to ensure successful programme implementation. Join us in making a tangible difference using the link below: https://lnkd.in/easj-C5J #techherfrica #digitalinclusion #financialinclusion #breakingbarriers #bridgingthedigitaldivide #ruralcommunityofpractice

https://lnkd.in/dY_vFU4w Exploring Africa's Tech Terrain: Female Policy Experts Kalonde Mung'Omba (me) and Nanjira Sambuli Share Insights. Join me as we dive into the impact of progressive legislation and efforts to bridge the digital gender gap in this insightful piece.

Unlocking Africa’s Economic Potential Through Skill Development: Empowering Youth and Women

Parvoleta Shtereva, EMpower’s Board of Director, recently penned an article for CNBC Africa on 'Women in Emerging Markets: Progress and the path forward'. The article covers the progress and challenges faced by women in emerging markets, from labor force participation gaps to the transformative power of technology. It underscores the importance of inclusive policies, investment in women’s initiatives, and technology to drive sustainable development. You can read more here: https://lnkd.in/epS5Fy8U