Gugu Mthembu, chief marketing officer at Telkom, has announced a new initiative to support women in technology, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s efforts to promote gender diversity. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields, particularly in South Africa. The programme, launched during the Telkom Women in Tech Awards in Cape Town, aims to provide mentorship, training, and career advancement opportunities for female professionals in the tech sector.
Initiative Details and Immediate Impact
The initiative, called "EmpowerHer," includes a partnership with local universities and tech startups to create a pipeline of talent. Telkom has committed R10 million (approximately $600,000) to fund the programme over the next three years. Mthembu highlighted that only 22% of tech professionals in South Africa are women, a statistic that has remained largely unchanged for over a decade. The lack of representation, she said, limits innovation and economic growth.
“We believe that empathy and inclusivity drive better outcomes,” Mthembu said in a statement. “By investing in women, we are not only empowering individuals but also strengthening the entire tech ecosystem.” The programme will also include a leadership development track, designed to prepare women for executive roles within the company and beyond.
Context and Broader Implications
The initiative aligns with global trends in corporate social responsibility, where companies are increasingly focusing on diversity and inclusion. Telkom, as one of South Africa’s largest telecommunications companies, has a significant role in shaping the country’s digital landscape. Its efforts could influence other firms to follow suit, particularly in a region where gender disparities in tech remain pronounced.
South Africa’s tech sector has grown rapidly in recent years, with the government investing in digital transformation initiatives. However, progress has been uneven, with women often facing barriers to entry and advancement. The EmpowerHer programme could serve as a model for other companies looking to address these challenges.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive steps, challenges remain. Many women in tech face systemic biases, including lower pay and limited access to leadership roles. The programme’s success will depend on sustained investment and a cultural shift within the organisation. Mthembu acknowledged that change will not happen overnight but stressed the importance of long-term commitment.
“This is just the beginning,” she said. “We need to create an environment where women feel supported and valued at every level of the company.” The initiative also includes a public awareness campaign to encourage more young women to pursue careers in technology.
What Comes Next
The first cohort of participants will begin in early 2025, with the programme expected to expand over the next two years. Telkom plans to publish progress reports quarterly, detailing the number of women trained, promoted, and supported through the initiative. The company has also pledged to increase the percentage of women in leadership roles by 10% within the next five years.
Analysts say the move could have a ripple effect across the industry. “Telkom’s commitment to gender diversity sets a strong precedent,” said Thandiwe Mbeki, a technology policy researcher at the University of Cape Town. “If other companies follow, it could lead to a more inclusive and innovative tech sector.”
Looking Ahead
As the EmpowerHer programme rolls out, its impact will be closely watched by stakeholders in South Africa and beyond. The first major milestone will be the launch of the first training cohort in early 2025. Investors, employees, and industry observers will be looking for measurable outcomes, including increased female representation in leadership roles and improved innovation metrics.
