Contribution:

An understanding of the role being played by the digital technologies and innovation in the attainment of equitable, just, and sustainable futures in sub-Saharan Africa especially in Zimbabwe.

Why would you like to speak in this workshop?:

Digital technology development is critical for the development and inclusive growth in the contemporary world. This is even more important for the global south region particularly sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where there are vast problems that are constantly reported. Digital technology has been identified as vital cog in the development equation. In the SSA region digital technologies particularly in the mobile category have revolutionized the landscape and transcended many facets of life from health, mobile money, tourism, and smallholder agriculture. Digital technologies facilitated virtual teaching and learning, digital financial movement and inclusivity, digital health, as well as assisted in providing continuity of life in many areas enabling societies to deal with social distance.

Accessibility gaps can exacerbate inequality and exclusion, and research has shown that technology can only improve an element if it is completely embraced and used properly. Access to digital tools is generally limited in poor countries. Digital technologies expanded faster than any other invention in memory, influencing more than half of the developing world's population in a short time and fundamentally transforming society. Through improved connectivity, financial inclusiveness, trade accessibility, and access to essential services, digital technology has the potential to be a big equalizer. As the area expands access to the digital services, we would want to draw your attention to the importance of these technologies in ensuring a more sustainable future in the context of Zimbabwe, including increased efficiency, and new growth models, as well as the need to guarantee that everyone benefits including the marginalised.