The Hopes Alive Initiative for Africa (HAI) has intensified its advocacy for the strengthening of women’s digital skills, calling for a more inclusive technological landscape to drive economic growth.
The push for gender-responsive digital development took center stage during a high-level multi-stakeholder policy dialogue organized by the foundation. The event aimed to operationalize Pillar Four of the Lagos State Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy Roadmap 2025–2030, which focuses specifically on the digital economy.
Strategic Partnerships for Progress
The initiative was a collaborative effort involving the French Consulate in Lagos and the Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development (HUFFPED). Held on March 5 at NECA House, Ikeja, the forum gathered key players to draft actionable recommendations for policy direction and strategic implementation.
Experts at the dialogue emphasized that the acquisition of digital skills is no longer a luxury but a critical pathway to employment and sustainable financial independence for women across the state.
Addressing Policy Gaps
Ayo Adebusoye, Chairman of the Lagos Civil Society Participation for Development (LACSOP), facilitated the session. He highlighted the systemic barriers and policy gaps that currently limit women’s participation in the tech sector, ranging from lack of infrastructure to social biases.
“I am encouraged by the responses from different stakeholders, and I believe we are making progress. The purpose of this dialogue is to advance gender equity, social protection, and economic empowerment for women, girls, and vulnerable populations across Nigeria,” Adebusoye stated.
A Roadmap for the Future
The dialogue served as a bridge between government institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Adebusoye noted that for the WEE Policy Roadmap to succeed, there must be a coordinated effort involving tech companies and development partners.
The session concluded with a consensus that achieving meaningful digital inclusion requires more than just training; it requires a robust ecosystem where government and private actors play complementary roles in providing tools and opportunities for women to thrive.
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