This new online tool aims to bridge the gender gap between people and governments

The Generation Equality Forum, a global event celebrating progress in gender equality, is currently underway in Paris, France. Amidst this gathering, a new online tool has been introduced with the aim of narrowing the divide between people and governments in achieving ambitious gender equality actions by the year 2030. This tool, developed across five key issues and 129 countries, seeks to forecast the progress or lack thereof in gender equality. Rachel Kaguya, the Manager of the Women Leadership Program at Femme Net, and Aya Chebbi, an African Union Youth Envoy, recently shared insights on the advancements in gender equality in Africa during a CNBC Africa interview. The discussion highlighted the significance of technology as a crucial avenue for promoting gender equality, particularly for the younger generation. While acknowledging the strides made in digital innovation since the Beijing Conference in 1995, Chebbi emphasized the role of technology in reshaping societal narratives and catalyzing social change. The digital space has provided a platform for young people to advocate for gender equality and amplify their voices on social media. However, Chebbi highlighted a critical challenge in Africa, where 70% of the population remains offline due to limited access to reliable and affordable internet. This digital disparity poses a significant barrier for young women, refugees, and individuals in rural and informal settlements, hindering their participation in online forums like the Generation Equality Forum in Paris. Kaguya echoed the importance of data in driving accountability and policy change towards gender equality. The online tool by EM2030 partners aims to consolidate comprehensive data representing diverse voices and experiences, ultimately revealing gaps and inequalities that require urgent attention. Dubbed 'Are We There Yet?', the tool challenges stakeholders to reflect on the progress towards gender equality and take tangible actions to address existing disparities. Despite the digital advancements propelling the continent's transformation, Kaguya stressed the need for concerted efforts to bridge the digital gap in Africa. While emphasizing the potential economic benefits of a digital economy and e-commerce, she cautioned against young women being relegated to digital consumers instead of active participants in online trade. Chebbi underscored the urgency for governments, private sectors, and civil society to prioritize digital inclusion and affordability in Africa, given the stark contrast with regions like Europe and North America, where internet access is significantly higher. Addressing the digital inequity in Africa is crucial for unlocking the transformative power of technology in advancing gender equality on the continent. As the global conversation on gender equality continues at the Generation Equality Forum, the imperative lies in leveraging digital innovation as a catalyst for positive change and ensuring inclusive participation for all, particularly marginalized groups in society.