The United States Embassy in Harare last week hosted the Second Women in Digital Business Summit and Graduation, a landmark event aimed at empowering women through digital skills and innovation.
Organised by Tofara Online Trust, the summit brought together women from across Zimbabwe to enhance their digital capabilities, grow their businesses, and celebrate their achievements in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
The event saw dozens of participants graduating after successfully completing digital skills training under the Women in Digital Business initiative.
The programme is designed to equip women with practical tools in areas such as digital marketing, content creation, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.
Despite growing opportunities in the digital space, speakers highlighted the persistent digital gender gap across Africa.
According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 32% of women in sub-Saharan Africa had access to the internet in 2023, compared to 42% of men — a disparity that continues to limit women’s economic participation.
However, organisers emphasised that initiatives like the summit are key to closing that gap.
Tofara Online Trust CEO, Tofara Chikore, said digital skills have the power to transform lives and businesses.
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“I have seen women shift from survival mode to strategic growth simply by embracing technology,” she said.
Chikore also reflected on her professional experience in the United States, including her time at LinkedIn in California, noting that such exposure can be leveraged to uplift Zimbabwean entrepreneurs in the digital economy.
Since its establishment in 2017, Tofara Online Trust has been at the forefront of empowering micro, small and medium enterprises, as well as women and youth, through digital skills training and innovation.
The US Embassy’s partnership in hosting the event highlights its commitment to promoting digital inclusion and economic empowerment in Zimbabwe, particularly through strengthening trade and bilateral relations.
Deputy public affairs officer Kiera Emmos led a panel discussion themed “From Digital Skills to AI-Powered Growth,” encouraging women to fully embrace the digital era.
“Women must strongly embrace the digital business space to drive innovation and growth,” she said.
The summit also featured discussions on scaling businesses through technology, leveraging digital platforms, and overcoming barriers in the digital economy.
Speakers shared success stories and practical insights on how women can position themselves beyond traditional limitations.
A key highlight was the graduation ceremony, which marked a new chapter for participants entering or expanding their presence in the digital economy.
The programme aligns with global development goals, including quality education, gender equality, and decent work and economic growth.
Beyond training, the event provided a valuable networking platform, connecting emerging entrepreneurs with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers — a critical step in building sustainable, women-led businesses.
