The world of technology has long been considered a male-dominated industry, with women being significantly underrepresented in tech roles. However, in recent years, Ghana has made great strides in promoting women in tech.
Ghana’s tech industry is growing rapidly, and with it, the demand for skilled professionals. However, women are still underrepresented in the industry. Despite this, Ghana has taken steps to bridge the gender gap in tech, recognising that diversity is crucial in driving innovation and economic growth. Through initiatives such as Miss Geek Africa/Miss Geek Ghana, girls are encouraged, equipped, and mentored to pursue STEM courses and professions. In collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, the Miss Geek Ghana competition provides training and financial support to young female software app developers (13-21 years) to develop their socially innovative projects that address various challenges in Ghanaian society (UNDP Ghana 2022).
Companies in Ghana are also working to promote women in tech and are showing that women can excel in the tech industry with the proper support and opportunities. One company that has been instrumental in promoting women in tech in Ghana is AmaliTech. AmaliTech is a social business that provides training and job opportunities in the tech industry. The free training programmes cover a wide range of topics, including coding, web development, data analysis, project management, as well as soft skills needed to ensure smooth international collaboration. The company’s mission is to create a diverse and inclusive tech ecosystem in Ghana where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
AmaliTech’s commitment to promoting women in tech is not just limited to its training programmes. The company also actively works to create an inclusive work environment where women are valued and have equal opportunities for advancement. In this context, the company has established a Women in Tech Empowerment Programme, which includes activities such as coding bootcamps for women only or career orientation days for girls. These activities have helped to attract and retain talented women in the industry, further promoting gender diversity in tech.
“Women don’t differ from men in intellectual competence, as research and scans have proven. We are only limited by the substance and scope of our mindsets and beliefs. Women, in times past, have contributed significantly to the inventions and interventions that the world currently enjoys, so why stop now? As a woman, don’t let any stereotypical tides deter you from offering the world the best you possibly can and becoming the best you can be. The world needs you now more than ever. Explore your passion for tech, and let’s make the world a better place – together!” – Lois Young, CSR Team Lead, AmaliTech.
Despite progress, there is still a long way to go in promoting women in tech in Ghana. Ghana’s tech industry is ripe with opportunities, and women are playing an increasingly important role in driving innovation and growth. Companies like AmaliTech are setting the pace in promoting gender diversity in the industry, providing training and job opportunities to underprivileged women, and creating an inclusive work environment. As more companies follow their lead, we can expect to see more and more women excelling in the tech industry in Ghana and beyond.