Tech Herfrica honoured with 2023 SDG Digital Changers Award at UN headquarters

In an inspiring display of dedication and resilience, Nigerians worldwide have once again showcased their unwavering commitment to meaningful causes. The spotlight fell on Tech Herfrica, a social impact organization with its roots in Nigeria, during a momentous event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on September 16, 2023.

Tech Herfrica, a trailblazing organization dedicated to advancing digital and financial inclusion for women and girls in rural Africa, received the prestigious 2023 SDG Digital Changers Award in the People Category. The award was graciously accepted by Prof Sola Akinrinade, a prominent member of Tech Herfrica’s Board.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reported a staggering 450 entries for the awards, with 270 vying for the People Category. Tech Herfrica emerged victorious after rigorous assessment by a high-level.

The SDG Digital GameChangers Award, an initiative of the ITU, the United Nations’ specialized agency for information and communication technologies, celebrates the remarkable contributions of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to advance the Global Goals through digital innovations.

In an interview with Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, a representative of Tech Herfrica, she shared that Tech Herfrica is focused on providing digital access to women in rural areas to bolster agriculture and trade, ultimately improving income and livelihoods for its beneficiaries. The organization also facilitates access to vital financial services.

“We started with a simple goal: to empower a single woman in a Nigerian village who had never made a sale worth more than $60 to a single customer. Now, we’ve positively impacted over 3,000 rural women, and we are setting our sights on reaching 10 million across Africa by 2030. We know it won’t be easy, but we are committed to leveraging cost-effective methods and forging collaborative partnerships to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital economy. Rural women deserve a chance to thrive through technology,” Imade said.

When asked about the organization’s rapid success, Imade mentioned that her walk with God and nearly two decades of work experience have been instrumental in shaping her perspective and approach. She extended heartfelt gratitude to Tech Herfrica’s Board of Directors, Management Team, staff members, volunteers, and partners for their invaluable contributions to the organization’s growth.

“Tech Herfrica is a divine assignment from God, and we have been blessed with dedicated, supportive, and innovative individuals who share our vision. This award celebration is also a celebration of our vibrant team,” Imade remarked.

Tech Herfrica conducts digital and financial literacy training in local languages for rural women. The organization provides internet-enabled smartphones and feature-rich phones to empower women with real-time weather information, access to e-commerce markets, financial services, and broader societal connections. Tech Herfrica also facilitates access to non-interest finance, health insurance, agriculture insurance, and long-term savings plans. Through its e-commerce-focused solutions, the organization connects rural women to domestic and international buyers, resulting in millions of Naira in facilitated trade.

In celebrating Tech Herfrica’s remarkable achievements, we also applaud all the award winners this year who are working tirelessly to make the world a better place through digital innovation and inclusion.