February 11 marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to recognising the contributions of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and advocating for gender equality in these fields. This year’s theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” underscores the urgent need to amplify women’s voices in scientific and technological advancements, particularly in Africa, where gender disparities in STEM persist.
Despite significant progress, women in Africa remain underrepresented in STEM careers. The UNESCO Institute for Statistics reports that only 28% of researchers worldwide are women, with the percentage being even lower in Africa. However, African women are increasingly breaking barriers, redefining innovation, and inspiring future generations to embrace STEM fields.
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The Gender Gap in African STEM
Women in Africa face multiple obstacles in STEM careers, including cultural biases, limited access to quality education, lack of mentorship, and inadequate funding for female-led scientific research. In many African countries, girls are often discouraged from pursuing technical subjects, resulting in fewer women enrolling in STEM programmes at the university level. According to a 2023 UNESCO report, fewer than 30% of STEM graduates in sub-Saharan Africa are women.
However, initiatives led by governments, NGOs, and private institutions are actively working to bridge the gender gap. Programmes such as Women in Tech Africa, the Mawazo Institute, and the African Women in Science and Engineering (AWSE) provide scholarships, mentorship, and funding opportunities to encourage more African girls to enter STEM fields.
Voices from the Field
Regina Honu, a Ghanaian tech entrepreneur and founder of Soronko Solutions, is transforming the tech industry by training young African women in coding, software development, and digital skills. Honu believes that empowering women with digital skills is key to Africa’s technological advancement. “STEM is not just a career path; it is a gateway to economic freedom and innovation,” she asserts.
Similarly, Yvonne Palm, a recognised leader in STEM and one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Africa (2024), highlights the importance of resilience. “Don’t give up, no matter what challenges you face,” she advises young girls pursuing careers in science and technology.
African Women Revolutionising STEM
African women are making groundbreaking contributions in various STEM disciplines:
Dr Quarraisha Abdool Karim (South Africa): A leading epidemiologist whose HIV/AIDS research has saved millions of lives.
Dr Isatou Touray (The Gambia): A public health specialist and advocate for women’s rights in scientific research.
Dr Tolullah Oni (Nigeria): A physician-scientist working on urban health innovations to improve city planning and health outcomes.
These women, among many others, serve as living proof that African women are at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, pushing the continent towards greater technological and healthcare advancements.
How Can We Bolster the Future of Women in STEM?
1. To sustain and accelerate progress, stakeholders must take proactive measures to support African women and girls in STEM:
2. Encourage Early STEM Education – Schools must integrate hands-on science projects and digital literacy programmes for girls from an early age.
3. Increase Funding and Scholarships – Governments and private entities should provide more grants, fellowships, and research funding for female scientists.
4. Create Inclusive Work Environments – Organisations must actively eliminate workplace biases and foster mentorship programmes.
5. Promote Female Role Models – The media should highlight successful African women in STEM to inspire the next generation.
The future of Africa’s STEM industry is female. By addressing gender disparities, providing equitable opportunities, and empowering young girls, Africa can harness the full potential of its women scientists, engineers, and tech innovators. As Her Voice in Science gains momentum, the world must listen, support, and invest in the limitless possibilities that African women bring to STEM.
