Zambia Commits to Bridging Gender Gap in AI and Digital Innovation
Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing girls’ participation in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI), as the country joined the global community in commemorating International Girls in ICT Day 2026.
The event, held under the theme “AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Future,” highlighted the urgent need to bridge the gender digital divide and empower girls to actively participate in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Officiating at the commemoration, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Mr Derick Saboi, said the initiative led globally by the International Telecommunication Union plays a critical role in inspiring girls and young women to pursue careers in ICT and STEM fields.
Mr Saboi noted that emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are transforming key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, finance, and public service delivery. However, he cautioned that these advancements must be inclusive.
“The future of technology must not be shaped by only one half of society. Girls and women must be fully represented as creators, innovators, leaders, and beneficiaries of digital transformation,” he said.
He acknowledged that women remain underrepresented in ICT-related fields globally, citing data from UNESCO and UN Women, which indicate low female participation in engineering, computer science, and other advanced digital disciplines.
Mr Saboi reaffirmed Government’s commitment to reversing this trend through frameworks such as the National ICT Policy and the Digital Transformation Strategy (2023–2027), which prioritise digital inclusion, skills development, and innovation.
He added that the Ministry, working closely with the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), continues to expand digital access and support initiatives including coding programmes, digital literacy campaigns, cybersecurity awareness, and youth entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the same event, ZICTA Representative Ms Banji Nyundu emphasised that inclusive digital participation is essential for national development. She said empowering girls in ICT not only drives innovation but also contributes to economic growth, job creation, and community transformation.
Ms Nyundu, however, warned of the risks associated with digital spaces, including cyberbullying, online harassment, exploitation, and privacy breaches, which often disproportionately affect girls.
“It is essential that digital inclusion goes hand in hand with online safety. Creating secure and supportive environments will enable girls to learn, explore, and innovate with confidence,” she said.
She added that ZICTA remains committed to promoting child online protection through partnerships with government, the private sector, and civil society.
Stakeholders at the event called on parents, educators, institutions, and the private sector to play an active role in mentoring and supporting girls in digital fields, while also encouraging young men to champion gender inclusion.
