Communication costs curtails girls participation
By Nomagugu Gumbo
The international Women’s Day commemorations is a time to celebrate the achievements made towards promoting the rights of women. For many young women in Zimbabwe, the high internet cost is a hindrance in enjoying some of the achievements.
In many parts of the world, the internet is crucial for job searching, networking and accessing remote work opportunities. Expensive internet costs in Zimbabwe is limiting young women and girls’ ability to explore and pursue career opportunities leading to economic difficulties.
The internet serves as a vital source of information on health, rights and social issues. Restricted access due to high costs can isolate young women and girls from important knowledge, impacting their ability to make informed decisions about their health, safety and future.
The internet is a platform for communication, social interaction and personal growth. High costs can isolate young women and girls from connecting with peers, mentors and support networks affecting their social and emotional well-being.
Access to the internet is essential for participating in civic activities, accessing government services and engaging in political discourse. Expensive internet cost can affect young women and girls ability to participate in their communities and exercise their rights as citizens.
Limited access to the internet can result in a lack of digital literacy and skills development among young women and girls, potentially impacting their ability to navigate the digital world, access online resources and adapt to technological advancements.
Increasing costs of living may put pressure on families making it challenging to afford educational expenses such as school fees, uniforms, textbooks and transportation. This financial strain can result in some families prioritizing the education of boys over girls or even requiring girls to drop out of school and do menial jobs so as to contribute to household income. This reduces girls’ academic participation.
