Bridging the Digital Divide: A Northern Woman’s Perspective on Embracing Technology
By Damaris Yakubu Habu
Introduction
In a world that is rapidly becoming more connected and technologically advanced, the concept “digital divide” remains a pressing issue, particularly for women in Africa. In Northern Nigeria, where tradition and cultural norms heavily influence daily life, the digital divide represents not just a gap in access to technology but also an obstacle to empowerment, education, and economic independence. From a Northern woman’s perspective, embracing technology offers a unique opportunity to bridge this gap, enabling women to participate more fully in the modern world while preserving their cultural identity and heritage.
What is this Digital Divide?
Digital divide refers to the gap between individuals, communities, or regions that have access to modern information and communication technology (ICT) and those that do not. In many parts of Northern Nigeria, this divide is influenced by socio-economic factors, cultural expectations, and gender-based barriers. Access to the internet, mobile phones, and digital literacy remains limited for many women, which further marginalizes them in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic participation. For Northern women, the barriers to technology are both external and internal. Social norms often place restrictions on women’s mobility, making access to technological resources, whether in the form of schools, internet cafes, or community centers—challenging. Additionally, the internalization of traditional gender roles can make it difficult for women to recognize the value of technology in enhancing their personal and professional lives.
The Northern Woman’s Perspective
From the perspective of a Northern woman, technology is not just a tool for communication and convenience but a potential gateway to empowerment. Historically, women in Northern Nigeria have been underrepresented in education, politics, and business. However, technology has begun to challenge these barriers, offering women the chance to access knowledge, connect with global communities, and engage in entrepreneurship—all without stepping outside the bounds of cultural norms. For many women, embracing technology has become synonymous with empowerment. Mobile phones, for instance, provide access to information on healthcare, legal rights, and educational opportunities that were previously out of reach. In a region where access to healthcare can be limited, mobile health applications offer life-saving information on maternal health, childcare, and nutrition. These tools allow women to make informed decisions about their health and that of their families, thereby improving overall community well-being.
Furthermore, digital platforms are opening up new avenues for economic participation. Northern women, many of whom engage in artisanal crafts, small-scale agriculture, or home-based businesses, can now leverage technology to expand their markets. Social media platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook have become popular tools for women to showcase and sell their products beyond their immediate communities. This shift allows women to generate income independently, thereby increasing their financial autonomy and contributing to household income.
Education as a Key Driver
Education is one of the most powerful tools in closing the digital divide, particularly for women in Northern Nigeria. The rise of online learning platforms offers unprecedented opportunities for women to acquire skills in various fields—from digital literacy to entrepreneurship, even if they cannot attend formal educational institutions. For instance, women can now access tutorials on everything from coding, catering to financial management, often for free or at a minimal cost.
One success story comes from Aisha, a young woman from Mararaba, North-central Nigeria who, despite her limited formal education, taught herself catering through YouTube and online courses. With her newfound skills, she began her career as a caterer, earning an income that not only supports her but also her family. Her story is a testament to the power of digital literacy in transforming lives and providing women with the tools to achieve economic independence. However, challenges such as access to technology are still limited in rural areas, and digital literacy programs targeting women are scarce. Many women are unaware of the opportunities that technology presents, which is why outreach and education initiatives must be a priority for government and NGOs alike. Empowering women with digital skills is not just a matter of equity—it’s a driver of economic growth for entire communities.
Cultural Sensitivity and Technology
While technology offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to approach its integration with cultural sensitivity. Northern Nigeria is a region rich in tradition, and for many women, adopting technology might feel at odds with cultural expectations. For technology to be truly inclusive, it must be adapted to the cultural context. One way this can be achieved is by creating technological solutions that align with local values. For example, mobile applications that provide education or healthcare information in local languages can make technology more accessible and culturally relevant.
Moreover, community leaders and influencers, particularly women who have embraced technology, can play a significant role in advocating for digital inclusion in a way that respects and upholds cultural traditions. Programs that focus on educating women about the benefits of technology must also address the concerns of families and communities. When technology is seen as a tool that strengthens family bonds, improves health, and increases economic opportunity, it is more likely to be embraced, even in more conservative settings.
The Road Ahead
Bridging the digital divide in Northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the physical and cultural barriers to technology access. For women, in particular, this means creating opportunities that promote digital literacy, providing affordable and accessible technology, and ensuring that these initiatives are culturally appropriate. As more Northern women embrace technology, the potential for societal transformation grows. Technology is not just a tool—it is a means for women to access education, improve their health, participate in the economy, and contribute to the development of their communities. From a Northern woman’s perspective, embracing technology is not about abandoning tradition; rather, it’s about using the tools of the modern world to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Conclusion
In a region where the digital divide has historically been wide, technology offers Northern women an unprecedented opportunity to bridge the gap. Through education, entrepreneurship, and healthcare, technology is transforming lives, offering women the chance to participate in a global conversation while remaining rooted in their cultural identity. By embracing technology, Northern women can rewrite the narrative of empowerment, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the digital age.