Lomé: In Africa, the pressing need for gender equality in the digital realm is emerging as a pivotal factor for achieving equitable and sustainable development. As societies across the continent undergo rapid digital transformation, the risks associated with this shift, including cyber threats, disproportionately affect women more than men.

According to Global Voices, Togolese lawyer and digital rights expert Winnie Aicha Tchedre highlights the vital role of digital rights education in fostering development and digital inclusion in Africa. Without an inclusive approach that accounts for gender disparities, existing inequalities are likely to deepen. Tchedre emphasizes the importance of encouraging female participation in digital training programs, which can empower women economically and enhance their access to information, online services, and opportunities in teleworking and telemedicine.

Tchedre advocates for integrating gender considerations into digital rights projects from the outset. This involves collecting gender-disaggregated data to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by women and men. Initiatives like the West African Regional Communication Infrastructure Programme (WARCIP) exemplify efforts to provide women with access to necessary training. An inclusive approach that involves women in the design and implementation phases of digital tools and platforms is crucial.

Barriers to women’s access to digital technologies are significant, particularly in regions like Togo, where sociocultural norms persistently exclude women. Limited knowledge of digital tools beyond social networks and the high cost of internet access further hinder women’s engagement with digital technologies. Additionally, the fear of online violence and harassment poses a substantial barrier to women’s full participation in the digital world.

Gender stereotypes in digital content exacerbate these challenges, reinforcing traditional gender roles and marginalizing women. Tchedre notes the presence of algorithmic biases that disadvantage women in search results, job suggestions, and targeted advertising. Despite mechanisms for reporting online gender-based discrimination, awareness of rights and available resources remains limited.

While specific laws guaranteeing gender equality in the digital sphere are scarce, regional initiatives such as the Maputo Protocol and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 aim to create a more inclusive digital environment. However, the enforcement of these frameworks remains a challenge. Countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Benin have enacted laws against cyber harassment and gender-based violence, yet proactive measures to ensure equal access are still lacking.

In conclusion, binding laws on digital inclusion and measures to counter discriminatory algorithmic biases are essential for the future. Achieving digital equality is crucial for fostering fair and sustainable development in Africa.