Over the past couple of years, there have been attempts to sell the idea that gender inequality is a thing of the past. This account has been perpetuated by the existence of a few women who have taken over the role of breadwinning, women who earn more than their husbands, the increasing number women going back to school to attain degrees and doctorates, and an overall improved education and employment progress.
Despite this progress, it is incorrect to claim that gender inequality does not exist in Kenya: at least not in the labor force and with work opportunities. The Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology serves as an example of a state department whose top management slots are reserved for men. A look at the top management of the Communications of Authority of Kenya (CA) confirms this.
It is too early to claim that Kenya is free from gender inequality. Efforts to empower women so that they can play a powerful role in various sectors are yet to bear desired fruits. Some people still hold on to traditional ideas about the rightful role of girls and women and will in some cases restrict their contributions. The result? An untapped potential.
Instead of perpetuating traditional exclusion of women in technology, the ministry should consider adding at least one female voice to their senior management. The process of addressing gender equality will only be successful if both major and minor players in various industries seek a remedy for the exclusion of women, especially with regard to decision-making.
CES 2018 sustains gender inequality
The recently concluded CES 2018 sustained the gender inequality problem. The keynote speakers were all male. Women were underrepresented as has been the norm with most CES shows. The tech show turned 50 this year and it is yet to treat female executives and technologists desirably. These women should be treated with the respect they deserve. They have earned it.
24BIT should not follow in the footsteps of the tech leaders who justify female exclusion. Organizers of CES 2018 claimed that there were a very small number of qualified women speakers but later changed tune and stated that their efforts to get a woman speaker from the qualified few had failed. In Kenya, there are amazing female technologists and the podcast can use their voice. This may be the first step for bringing about change in the tech industry and also set the momentum for change in various industries.
It is time to give audiences the opportunity to hear from both female and male tech industry leaders. We can no longer claim to be covering topics in full breadth and depth without a female voice. It is time for women to be given the opportunity to join the privileged group as long as they qualify, of course.
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