Celebrating its 10th anniversary, She Code Africa is evolving from a focus on access to technology toward ensuring women progress into leadership roles, build companies, secure funding, and shape the continent’s digital economy. This strategic shift dominated discussions at the recent She Code Africa Summit in Lagos.
Founded in 2016 as a storytelling initiative, the organization has impacted over 65,000 women and girls across more than 20 African countries. While access to tech remains important, founder Ada Nduka Oyom emphasized that it’s not enough if other barriers persist—whether it’s mentorship opportunities, funding, or pathways for advancement.
“You can train a woman, but if you don’t give her the opportunity to apply those skills, it’s just a dead end,” Oyom explained. The organization now aims to create ecosystems where women not only enter tech but also thrive and lead within it.
Speakers at the summit echoed this sentiment, noting that while female participation has increased, leadership representation lags behind. Napa Onwusah of B4B Partners called for a transition from “presence to power,” with more women building technology businesses, leading companies, and making investment decisions.
The conversation extended to ownership—both literal and figurative—with panelists emphasizing the need for greater African control over digital infrastructure and resources. As Adeife Adeoye put it, visibility should translate into tangible outcomes like business creation and economic empowerment.
Looking ahead, She Code Africa plans to incorporate AI fundamentals into its programs while advocating for policy changes that support women’s advancement in tech.