By Imani Henrick, Award-Winning Journalist, and Podcaster

Excellence in Journalism Awards in Tanzania (EJAT) - Gender and Children Reporting Category 25/7/2023 Tanzania has long been a nation of vibrant culture, dynamic growth, and untapped potential. As a journalist and podcaster focusing on Digital Rights and inclusion, I embarked on a mission to shed light on a pressing issue that has remained in the shadows for far too long – the Digital Gender Gap. Today, I stand proud as the first runner-up in the Gender and Children Reporting Category at the Excellence in Journalism Awards in Tanzania (EJAT). This award recognizes not only my dedication but also the importance of addressing the profound disparities that still exist in the digital landscape of our beloved nation.


My documentary, which captured the essence of the Digital Gender Gap in Tanzania, delved into the challenges faced by women and marginalized communities in accessing and utilizing digital technologies. It was an endeavor to showcase the barriers that hinder their digital inclusion, such as limited access to digital tools, lack of digital literacy, and societal norms that perpetuate discrimination in the online sphere. Through the lens of this documentary, we aimed to ignite conversations, create awareness, and pave the way for a more inclusive digital future.

None of this would have been possible without the support and funding provided by Paradigm Initiative. Their belief in the power of journalism and advocacy to bring about positive change allowed me to pursue this important project with unwavering commitment. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Paradigm Initiative for enabling me to amplify the voices of those who are often left unheard.

The Digital Gender Gap is not merely an abstract concept; it has real-world implications for millions of Tanzanian women and marginalized individuals. In a rapidly digitizing world, access to information and technology is not just a luxury but a fundamental right. Bridging this gap is crucial to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the digital revolution.

As a journalist and podcaster, I promise to remain dedicated to this space and continue my efforts in advocating for digital rights and inclusion. Through my work, I will strive to tell the stories of those who are striving against the odds to overcome the digital divide. I will engage with policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to push for policies and initiatives that foster digital inclusion and bridge the gender gap.

To achieve meaningful progress, collaboration and awareness are key. I call upon all stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organizations, private sector entities, and fellow journalists, to join hands in this journey. Together, we can create an ecosystem where digital empowerment knows no gender, and everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive in the digital realm.

As I reflect on this award, I am reminded of the countless women and individuals who shared their stories with me during the documentary's production. Their resilience and determination have been a source of inspiration and a driving force behind my commitment to this cause. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.


Once again, I express my deepest gratitude to Paradigm Initiative for their invaluable support, the Excellence in Journalism Awards in Tanzania (EJAT) for recognizing the importance of this topic, and all those who believed in my vision. Let us continue this journey together and strive for a more inclusive, digitally empowered Tanzania.

About the Author: Imani Henrick is an award-winning journalist and podcaster based in Tanzania. With a passion for Digital Rights and inclusion, they have been dedicated to shedding light on pressing social issues and advocating for positive change through their journalistic works and podcasts.