AMDF calls for safe, inclusive digital space for all gender … salutes tenacity of female journalists

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“Africa Media Development Foundation joins women all over the world to celebrate the 2023 International women’s Day. This year’s theme, “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality” underscores the contributions of women in technology and calls for a safe and inclusive digital space for all gender.

“According to the United Nations, the IWD theme which aligns with the priority theme of 67th session of the Committee on the Status of Women, recognizes and celebrates the women and girls who are championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education and curtailing the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities.

“We are not unaware of the challenges limiting access to technology for women, which include but not limited to; poor education, discriminatory gender norms, poverty, etc. We also acknowledge salient issues like cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking and all forms of cyber-attacks recorded among women in tech and digital space

“This year’s theme calls for an increased effort by all to #EmbraceEquity towards promoting access and ensuring that women enjoy the same rights as men to hold opinion and associate in the digital space.

“Today, AMDF salutes the tenacity of female journalists who against all odds of digital threats and attacks have continued to engage digital tools and technology to contribute their quota in advancing their role in speaking for the voiceless as members of the fourth estate of the realm.

“We celebrate every woman who has been resilient despite the digital inequality, and every He4She who continues to support and push for equality for women at different levels and sectors of engagement.

“AMDF therefore calls for collaborative efforts to ensure online safety of female journalists as well as joined efforts from all stakeholders to curtail the online gender based violence faced by women.

“We call for renewed support and commitment by all stakeholders; government, private and corporate organizations towards bridging the digital gap in the area of access and affordability to technological tools.

“Today, we affirm our commitment to promoting digital rights as well as human rights at every level of social and civic engagement towards the attainment of sustainable development.

“Africa Media Development Foundation will continue to partner and support women and girls towards an equitable digital space.