Ahead of the 2024 general elections, some 200 female politicians are undergoing digital skills training to contribute to meaningful dialogues and improve online safety.
The training is spearheaded by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) in collaboration with Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF) with support from the Dutch Foreign Ministry.
It seeks to address the challenges women face on social media while navigating digital spaces to communicate campaign messages to listeners and followers.
Dr. Martin Thompson Ntem, a Digital Communications Consultant, at a two-day training in Kumasi, provided understanding into the significance of digital training, adding that “we are in an era where digital marketing is important.
It is necessary for female politicians to use these tools to share their stories, promote their political messages, and engage voters.”
He emphasized that safety remained a primary concern, especially at a time when many females faced harassment online.
Dr. Ntem noted that the internet could be a dangerous place for women in public roles hence the need for these lawmakers to be abreast of the happenings on digital platforms and adjust accordingly.
“We are covering topics like data protection and cybersecurity, helping participants strengthen their online security to avoid hacking or other forms of digital sabotage.
They will learn how to create strong passwords and manage their online privacy”, Dr. Ntem echoed.
The training also covered topics in social media marketing and digital engagement techniques, and combating gendered disinformation, a prevalent issue that hinders women’s participation in politics.
Ms. Daisy Prempeh, Programme Officer at MFWA, said efforts to equip these women could go a long way in connecting beneficiaries with constituents and project their aspirations if voted for.
She explained that the trainings were being organised in Tamale, Kumasi and Accra for the selected female politicians in anticipation to bolster active political discourse digitally.
Ms. Lois Aduahmoah-Addo, Programme Manager at WiLDAF, said amplifying women’s campaign messages through social media platforms could give them mileage, pointing out that many women missed out on such opportunities, and that “it is time they are cushioned.”
GNA