DialogueON: Digitalisation

On Friday 17th July, ODIF hosted another engaging session in our DialogueON series to discuss digitalisation, the digital divide, and its impact on inequality. As digital technologies continue to transform advocacy, education, employment, and civic participation, the session explored both the opportunities and challenges presented by an increasingly digital world. Particular attention was given to the barriers faced by marginalised communities in accessing digital spaces and the collective action needed to create a more inclusive digital future.

Speaker Insights

We were delighted to welcome Irene Nyangasi, a software engineer with expertise in technology, artificial intelligence, and digital governance. Irene serves at the Representative Office of the DMUN Foundation at the United Nations Office in Nairobi and has extensive experience representing young people at international and regional forums.

Millions of people continue to face barriers to accessing affordable technology, reliable internet, and the digital skills needed to participate fully in society. Irene highlighted how these inequalities reinforce existing social and economic disadvantages by limiting access to education, employment, public services, and opportunities to influence decision-making.

She also explained that the digital divide extends beyond internet connectivity. Rural communities, low-income households, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups often experience unequal access to devices and online opportunities. Additional challenges surrounding misinformation and online safety make digital literacy essential. Digital technologies have fundamentally transformed activism.

Looking ahead, Irene emphasised that building an inclusive digital future requires collaboration between activists, technologists, and policymakers. She called for greater investment in accessible technologies and policies that protect digital rights. Closing the digital gap is about ensuring everyone has the skills, confidence, and opportunity to participate and advocate for change.

Dialogue

The discussion that followed explored the many dimensions of digital inequality and the practical steps needed to ensure digitalisation benefits everyone. Several participants reflected on both the opportunities and inequalities created by digitalisation. While digital technologies can expand employment opportunities, financial inclusion, civic participation, and access to government services, many marginalised communities continue to face

significant barriers. 

Participants highlighted the significant practical barriers in expanding digital access. Some stressed that inadequate public investment in technology continues to undermine equal participation in digital spaces. Others echoed these concerns, calling for greater investment in digital infrastructure across Africa while emphasising the importance of digital literacy and capacity building as communities adapt to technological change. Another participant highlighted the need for stronger transparency and opportunity equity, particularly with an increasingly digital workforce.

Final Thoughts

The session concluded with a reminder from Irene that technology should amplify every voice rather than reinforce existing inequalities. While many challenges prevent many people from benefiting from digital opportunities, digital inclusion should ensure that no one is left behind.

The discussion reinforced that the digital divide affects far more than internet access alone. It shapes opportunities for education, employment, civic engagement, and social inclusion. Participants agreed that we can work towards a more inclusive digital future where technology serves everyone equally. The dialogue demonstrated that building inclusive digital societies requires ongoing collaboration to ensure that every voice can participate.

~Naomi Lea