Aji Fama Jobe, a recognized digital creator and one of the leaders in the technical community in Gambia, has emerged as a prominent advocate for gender equality in the tech sector. Under her leadership, Women TechMakers Banjul has become a beacon of hope for many women and girls by providing them with essential resources and mentorship. This organization has played a crucial role in transforming the digital landscape in the country.
During a recent interview, Jobe shared her personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the essence of freedom of expression, which she sees as a fundamental pillar that involves being able to speak without fear of judgment. However, in Gambia, this legal freedom is not always reflected in practice, as cultural norms often tend to suppress female voices. “Women are often expected not to speak up,” noted Jobe, highlighting the challenges they face in various environments, from the household to the workplace.
She also criticized the authorities and major tech platforms for their inability to properly moderate online content, especially in local contexts with a variety of languages. Jobe pointed out that giants like Facebook lack the resources and understanding necessary to handle the unique complexities of African environments, making it difficult to regulate digital discourse.
Since the political change in Gambia in 2016 with the establishment of a new government, there has been relative openness for free expression. However, Jobe recalled how under the previous regime, silence was the norm, and openly discussing political issues could have serious repercussions.
The drive to create Women TechMakers stemmed from her own experience in technology, realizing the lack of guidance for young women. “We want employers to focus on skills rather than gender,” Jobe stated, emphasizing that her work has empowered many women to find confidence and opportunities in the tech industry.
Finally, Jobe emphasized that protecting freedom of expression and digital rights is a collective task that must transcend government. “The words we share can make or break someone,” she concluded, reiterating that we all must contribute to creating a safe and accessible online space for everyone.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
