Telecel Ghana CEO Patricia Obo-Nai has called for a structured approach to close the gender gap in Africa's digital economy. She spoke at a summit in Kigali, Rwanda, on May 26, 2026. The goal is to provide concrete solutions for future generations of girls. These solutions aim to tackle barriers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Madam Obo-Nai argued that such barriers limit girls' participation. She noted cultural expectations and a lack of role models. Weak institutional support also plays a role. These issues restrict access to STEM opportunities early on.
Data from the UNDP shows only 27 per cent of STEM professionals in Africa are women. Madam Obo-Nai described this as systemic exclusion. She stated that excluding women means Africa loses talent and creativity. It also loses diverse ideas that drive innovation. This limits our ability to solve complex continent-wide problems. Telecel Ghana has created digital skills programs to address this imbalance. Its Foundation leads STEM initiatives for students. These programs target upper primary and junior high students. The telecom operator offers training in coding and robotics. It also covers the Internet of Things and mobile app development. A key detail is that 70 per cent of participants in these programs are female. This shows a deliberate effort to attract girls.
The Telecel Female Engineering Student Scholarship Programme is another initiative. It has supported over 100 women since 2011. The program provides tuition assistance and mentorship. It also offers work placements. This aims to build a stronger pipeline of female talent in engineering. Madam Obo-Nai stressed the need for broader institutional change. Inclusion efforts must go beyond training programmes. They need to influence policy and hiring systems. Leadership structures also require adjustment. These systems should actively create opportunities for women. The digital systems being built across Africa today are crucial. These include fintech and artificial intelligence. They will be used by the girls currently in school.
Ing. Obo-Nai challenged leaders at the event. She asked them to identify specific actions they have taken. These actions should support girls not yet in leadership roles. She also urged them to identify mentorship gaps. Leaders were asked to commit to expanding access for young women. The Golden Hour event in Kigali served as a platform for leaders. It brought together senior figures, policymakers, and industry executives. They discussed Africa's development priorities. The discussions focused on thematic areas. The event is part of the Forward Africa Leaders Symposium pre-dialogue series. It was designed for candid exchange. Leaders were encouraged to examine the systems shaping Africa's future. The demographic representation of women in tech is a critical economic issue.
The implications of closing this gender gap are significant. Increased female participation in STEM can boost economic growth. It can lead to more innovation and better problem-solving. Companies that embrace diversity often perform better. Policymakers will need to consider these insights. They may introduce new regulations or incentives. Telecel Ghana's model could serve as an example for other companies. The ongoing development of Africa's digital infrastructure requires a diverse workforce. This upcoming generation of tech professionals will shape the continent. Their skills and perspectives are vital for future progress. Watch for more corporate initiatives aimed at gender inclusion. Monitor policy changes designed to support women in tech.