By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Ways of building a women-friendly digital economy have been explored in a one-day workshop focused on fostering inclusive digital development in Cameroon.
The event, dubbed “CAMTEL Women’s Day,” was held on March 26 in Yaoundé under the theme, “Supporting the Building of a Women-Friendly Digital Economy.”
Participants included government officials, development partners, private sector players, and experts from diverse backgrounds.
Speaking at the event, Judith Yah Sunday, the General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL), emphasized the crucial role women play in the country’s development.
However, she stated that despite the opportunities offered through technological advances to promote the well-being of populations, there remain significant challenges for women and girls who do not always reap all the benefits, particularly concerning their empowerment and inclusion.
Nevertheless, she stressed the need for a gender-equal digital development approach, focusing on innovation, digital technologies, and education. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness among women and girls about their rights and civic engagement.
In addition, she said, it has become imperative to establish a digital development approach concerned with gender equality, particularly in terms of innovation, digital technologies, and education.
According to the DG, CAMTEL in its capacity as a corporate citizen and the secular arm of the State in the telecommunications sector, is executing the missions assigned to it fully.
These missions, she emphasized, include the advancement of telecommunications infrastructure and services, as well as the promotion of human potential across all genders in various socio-economic and technological processes and advancements.
“In this regard, we are particularly focused on issues related to achieving inclusive development and, specifically, reducing gender disparities.”
While acknowledging Ministries, development partners, and organizations for their efforts in advocating for women’s rights, Judith Yah Sunday commended the courage of women who excel daily in various business sectors, including digital technology, which was previously seen as predominantly male-dominated. “They are making a significant and lasting impact on our country’s journey towards progress,” she remarked.
The event featured panel discussions and presentations, marking another milestone in CAMTEL’s 25th-anniversary celebrations. CAMTEL Women’s Day followed a series of activities such as CAMTEL Digital Day, CAMTEL Decentralization Day, CAMTEL Digital Infrastructure Day, and CAMTEL Youth Day.