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In today’s rapidly evolving world, the pivotal role of women in driving progress, innovation, and sustainable development cannot be overstated. Yet, despite significant strides, gender disparities persist. Education is the cornerstone of empowerment, and investing in women’s education is an investment in the future. By providing equal access to education and training opportunities, we not only empower women but also unlock their potential to contribute meaningfully to society. At Rsif, we support women scholars and innovators while fostering an inclusive ecosystem where they can thrive. Through our scholarships, mentorship, and research opportunities, we ensure that talented women across Africa have the chance to excel in applied sciences, engineering, and technology (ASET). We are committed to breaking down barriers and paving the way for a new generation of female leaders.

Supporting women scholars and innovators is not just a matter of equality; it’s a strategic imperative for regional progress. When women are given the opportunity to thrive in academia and innovation, they become catalysts for change, driving breakthrough discoveries, pioneering solutions to pressing challenges, and reshaping industries.

As the world celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we would like to highlight some Rsif scholars making strides in the STEM:

• Dr Theofrida Maginga, a recent Rsif alumna who graduated from the University of Rwanda with a PhD in embedded computing systems, funded by Rsif-PASET. Our support has been instrumental in her career, especially as a woman in ICT and big data. Beyond financial assistance, we provide mentorship and a strong support system, ensuring that women like Dr Theofrida have a pipeline for career growth. Despite challenges such as imposter syndrome and societal stereotypes, her journey underscores the transformative impact of our program in empowering women in ICT and big data.

• Dr Linda Bih Numfor from Cameroon, a recent Rsif alumna from Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology in Tanzania, completed her PhD in the Synthesis and Comparative Study of Activated Biochars’ and Clay Balls’ Capacity for Organic and Inorganic Decontamination. Not only did she complete her studies, but she also earned a patent and published impactful research solutions. Dr Linda’s achievements highlight the immense potential that exists when women in STEM receive the support and resources to excel.

• Faith Wanjiku, a final-year Kenyan Rsif PhD student at Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania, was inspired to pursue a career in food security and agribusiness after witnessing disparities in farmers’ earnings in her community while growing up. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, Faith remains committed to her passion, driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact.

• Esther Aldégonde Kpodo, a Beninese Rsif PhD scholar at the African Center of Excellence for Climate Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation (Climate SABC) at Haramaya University in Ethiopia, is driven by a passion for addressing climate change and its impacts on Africa. Esther’s dedication to advancing understanding and shaping socio-economic transformation underscores the vital role of women in climate action and sustainable development.

Across Africa, female scholars are breaking barriers and conducting groundbreaking research in diverse fields. However, their journeys are often fraught with challenges, from limited funding opportunities to societal biases. Through Rsif-PASET, we are empowering more women to pursue advanced studies, transform industries, and serve as role models for future generations of women in science, technology, and innovation. The remarkable achievements of women like Theofrida, Linda, Faith and Esther is a lesson that providing a nurturing environment where women can pursue their passions, can help them overcome obstacles, and be gamechangers in their fields.

At Rsif, our dedication to empowering women in science, innovation, and climate action is more than a commitment—it is a promise to future generations. By nurturing talent, breaking down barriers, and fostering a culture of inclusivity, we are driving regional progress and shaping a brighter future for Africa. Investing in women’s education and innovation not only empowers individuals but also fuels regional progress, prosperity, and resilience. Together, let us continue building a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to unleash her full potential, accelerate progress, and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.

Here is a brief interview with Dr Asingwire Barbara Kabwiga, is a Ugandan national who pursued her PhD in Embedded computing Systems-Internet of Things at the University of Rwanda on the topic: Architectural Design of IoT-Based Healthcare Heterogeneous Traffic: Performance Analysis and Optimization. Dr Kabwiga is currently a Lecturer in Computer Engineering and Informatics at Busitema University in Eastern Uganda.

Q: Tell us more about yourself?

A: I am Dr Asingwire Barbara Kabwiga, a Ugandan, born and raised in Kabale district in South-Western Uganda. As the only girl among five boys, I begun the task of balancing house chores and academics early enough and this only propelled me to be hardworking and keen to excel academically, perceiving such an achievement as the only path to a bright future.

Q: What is IoT?

A: IoT simply stands for The Internet of Things which is a network of connected devices that can share data and perform tasks.

Q: How relevant is your research on IoT architecture?

A: The proposed IoT architecture enables connection of medical sensors to collect patients’ health data and process it to reduce on the burden on the healthcare systems in developing countries.

Q: What could be done to accelerate the adoption of IoT-based healthcare in developing countries?

A: Things like data privacy legislation, national IoT plans, and financial incentives for healthcare providers and entrepreneurs, as well as expanding internet access, guaranteeing interoperability standards, could speed adoption of IoT in health care service delivery.

Q: How has Rsif empowered you to be science leader?

A: Obtaining the Rsif scholarship was the game changer because it availed a platform for me to contribute tremendously to the health sector in Sub-Saharan Africa using the latest computing technologies like the Internet of things.

Q: How does the International Day of Women and Girls in Science mean to you as a woman IoT scientist?  

A: This increases awareness of women’s critical role in STEM. By highlighting female innovators and role models, the day can motivate young girls to take science professions such as in health technology.

Additional reporting by Janet Otieno