In the success stories of Tanzania's Tech sector lies a vibrant community of women who are not just making an impact but shaping the future of technology in Tanzania and Africa in general. Women and Technology Tanzania also known as #TechWomenTz, the standing point of this movement, continues to shine a spotlight on these remarkable women, serving as role models to countless young girls aspiring to pursue their paths in the tech industry.
For the second year in a row, Women and Technology Tanzania, in collaboration with LP Digital, a digital arm of The Launchpad Tanzania, hosts an event that aims to celebrate and address challenges, resilience, innovation, and leadership within the tech atmosphere. The annual Tanzania Women and Technology conference, held this year on the 6th of March at the University of Dar es Salaam New Library, stood as a testament to this commitment.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Dr. Doroth Gwajima, the Minister of Community Development Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Sir Dr. Michael Anthony Battle, the Ambassador of the United States in Tanzania, Tigo Business, World Bank, and NMB as official event sponsors. Women and Technology Tanzania took the stage to honor outstanding women in six different categories: Digital/Tech Inclusion for Women Champion, HealthTech, Hall of Fame, FinTech, EduTech, and AgriTech.
Let's dive into the stories of these extraordinary women who are not just breaking barriers but building bridges for future generations.
Digital/Tech Inclusion for Women Champion – Abella Bateyunga
Meet Abella Bateyunga, the visionary founder of the Tanzania Bora Initiative (TBI), dedicated to empowering young women to engage in governance and civic rights. a youth-led development organization that champions youth agency, and livelihoods and supports youth leadership. TBI is dedicated to fostering innovation among youth, advancing gender equality and disability inclusion, amplifying youth voices, identifying opportunities for youth, and cultivating youth leadership in both governance and economic realms. Abella's tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring countless women to step into roles traditionally dominated by men.
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EduTech - Dr. Mboni Kibelloh
Dr. Mboni Kibelloh, the driving force behind DarasaTech, embodies the spirit of educational empowerment. Through DarasaTech, she's bridging the digital gap by providing essential training to youth, communities, and professionals, paving the way for a more inclusive and tech-savvy society. DarasaTech provides digital skills training, upskilling, and capacity building to rapidly transform the digital competencies of youth, working professionals, and the community. Dr. Kibelloh's efforts pave the way for a society that is not only inclusive but also proficient in navigating the evolving landscape of technology.
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HealthTech - Maria Theresa Samson Kadushi
Ms. Kadushi stands out as an important beacon of the innovative mind behind MOBILE AFYA, a revolutionizing healthcare accessibility. Mobile Afya (mHealth) is dedicated to solving obstacles obstructing healthcare accessibility by Developing mobile applications aimed at enhancing health outcomes, fostering wellness, and empowering individuals and communities to make informed choices. Facilitating virtual connections between individuals and healthcare professionals, providing remote access to primary medical care. And, lowering healthcare expenditure by proactively facilitating cost-effective access to healthcare experts, thereby diminishing reliance on costly in-person consultations and nurturing a healthier, more content clientele.
Her groundbreaking USSD application delivers vital health information in local languages, leveraging mobile technology to uplift communities across Africa.
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01st Winner - FinTech - Faith Pella
Faith Pella, the trailblazing founder of Kinara International Network, is leading the charge in inclusive digital strategy development for FinTechs across Africa. Her platform is not just about financial innovation but about creating opportunities for all, regardless of background or gender.
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02nd Winner FinTech - Lilian Secelela Madeje
Introducing Lilian Secelela Madeje, the innovative master mind behind Niajiri Platform, a comprehensive online talent management tool and employability platform designed to enhance youth in the job market. Niajiri serves as a one-stop destination, facilitating connections between job seekers and potential employers. Through its user-friendly interface and significant features, Niajiri empowers young individuals by providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in today's competitive employment landscape. With Lilian's vision and dedication, Niajiri Platform is revolutionizing the way youth access employment opportunities, fostering a brighter future for generations to come.
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AgriTech – Rose Funja
In the era of AgriTech, Rose Funja stands tall as the founder of Altitude Limited. A technology company specializing in digital transformation, utilizing drones and satellite data to spearhead innovation and deliver impactful solutions across different sectors. Through the strategic utilization of drone technology in data gathering, acquire invaluable insights, enabling farmers and investors with cutting-edge analytics and enhanced decision-making processes.
Beyond that, Ms. Funja is committed to providing tech knowledge to the youngest generation, through her initiative She Codes for Changes, aiming to transform information technology educational opportunities for girls in secondary schools, ages 13–19, through its training and mentorship programs and young women in colleges and Universities, ages 20–26. Rose Funja has also chaired the Buni Divaz community, representing a group of empowered Tanzanian girls under the TANZICT and COSTECH umbrella.
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Hall of Fame - Eng. Clarence Ichwekeleza
Eng. Clarence Ichwekeleza's contributions to Tanzania's tech landscape are nothing short of legendary. From spearheading strategic postal business programs at Tanzania Posts Corporation, crafting the pivotal ICT policy of 2016, Playing a critical role in establishing the ICT Commission to designing and implementing the National Postal Address system. Clarence's visionary leadership has left an incredible mark on the nation's digital economy agenda.
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These stories are not just about individual achievements, they're about collective progress. They remind us that the future of technology is not predetermined but shaped by the actions of those who dare to dream and take action.
As we celebrate these women and their hardworking spirit, let us also remember our commitment to creating an inclusive tech ecosystem where every girl, regardless of background, can thrive and contribute her unique perspective to building a brighter tomorrow. Through this remarkable platform, let's continue to Inspire dreams, and aspirations, and pave the way for a future where women in tech are not just celebrated but significant pillars of innovation and progress.
August, 2024READ MOREDOWNLOAD