HARARE, Zimbabwe’s Honorable Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, has called for greater participation of women in the technology sector, highlighting the growing role of women in shaping the country’s digital future during the Women in ICT Conference 2026 held to commemorate International Women’s Day.
Speaking as Guest of Honour at the conference hosted by the Computer Society of Zimbabwe, Honorable Minister Mavetera described the event as a “full circle moment,” reflecting on her journey as Zimbabwe’s first female ICT minister while addressing a new generation of young women pursuing careers in coding, engineering, and cybersecurity.
Addressing delegates, the minister said Zimbabwe is witnessing a significant shift in the technology sector, with more women enrolling in ICT-related courses and increasingly taking up leadership roles in laboratories, companies, and boardrooms. She noted that the growing presence of women in the digital field signals the breaking of long-standing stereotypes and the emergence of a more inclusive technology ecosystem.
Honorable Minister Mavetera expressed appreciation to key partners supporting initiatives aimed at empowering women in technology. She commended the Computer Society of Zimbabwe for its mentorship programs that are helping bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice, enabling young professionals to transition smoothly into the digital workforce.
The minister also acknowledged the support of Adrian Aristilde, Embassy of Canada in Zimbabwe Ambassador, whose government has provided sponsorship for programs promoting gender equality and digital inclusion. She noted that Canada’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in technology aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader vision of building an inclusive digital economy.
Highlighting government-led initiatives, Honorable Minister Mavetera pointed to the progress being made under the She Tech Initiative, which operates under the patronage of Auxillia Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe’s First Lady. The program provides scholarships and support to young girls and women across the country to pursue studies in ICT-related fields.
According to the minister, the initiative is designed not only to ensure women participate in the digital economy but also to empower them to become leaders, innovators, and decision-makers within the sector.
She encouraged women and girls to take advantage of opportunities within the technology space, stressing that Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda requires inclusive participation from all sectors of society.
“As we build a Digital Zimbabwe, every woman must know that the technology sector has a place for her. Your ideas, innovations, and leadership are essential in shaping the future of our nation,” she said.
The Women in ICT Conference 2026 brought together policymakers, industry leaders, educators, and young technology professionals to discuss strategies for expanding women’s participation in the digital sector while celebrating progress made in advancing gender equality in Zimbabwe’s technology landscape.
