Uber as part of its corporate social investment has launched a programme to economically empower women in Africa.
Dubbed GigSister, the women earner empowerment initiative is being implemented in Ghana, Kenya and South Africa.
According to the company, the GigSister is an influencer-led community group created to connect, empower and grow female drivers on the Uber platform across Africa.
The initiative, which has already achieved success in parts of Europe and the UK, sees Uber teaming up with like-minded partners, including Google and L’Oreal, to uplift and empower women through mental health support, motivation and self-promotion, as well as self-defence training.
Speaking at the launch as part of activities to mark the International Women’s Month to highlight the role of technology and culture in promoting gender equity across Africa, the Head of Uber Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, Marjorie Saint-Lot, said
“We are excited about this opportunity to come together and celebrate the potential of women to be business leaders in Africa,” and economically empower them.
The exercise, done in partnership with TechConnect Africa attracted African female business role models who shared their experiences and insights, including the lessons they have learned in their respective journeys.
She said the GigSister was to promote gender equality, recognising the contributions of women in business creating a more level playing field for both genders in Africa and inspiring women and girls to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and career ambitions.”
Mrs Saint-Lots said “As a global organisation that prioritises inclusion and gender equity, Uber has long championed the cause of women around the world not only because it is a moral imperative to create a more just and equitable society with opportunities for all, but also because promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, and putting more women in leadership positions, is proven to make for more innovative, successful and sustainable businesses.”
The Head of TechConnect Africa, JeminatuAlabi-Isama, for her part said “It’s our mission to build a highly engaged, innovative and interconnected global community. We are proud to work with Uber on this initiative to uplift and empower women across Africa and transform communities.”
BY TIMES REPORTER
