Theirworld to launch Code Clubs for girls in Zimbabwe

Girls and young women will learn how to use computers and gain crucial life skills at new Code Clubs to be launched in Zimbabwe.

Theirworld has partnered with Muzinda Hub in the capital Harare to provide wider access to basic technology and coding courses to 120 girls and young women aged 10 to 20. 

The project will teach and train girls in computer literacy, basic coding and how to create apps – as well as life skills such as confidence, creativity and critical thinking.

Theirworld has previously launched Code Clubs in Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania and Lebanon. They are safe spaces where girls can learn about coding and basic information and communications technology through a playful, creative approach.

The Code Clubs initiative reflects the growing focus on digitalisation, automation, artificial intelligence and robotic – and the implications they will have on the workplace of the future.

Vimbai Gwata, the Head of Muzinda Hub, said: “UNESCO figures show girls are 50% less likely to attend higher education than boys and those that are in education are not studying science, technology and engineering. 

“If these trends continue, we are facing a future where girls will be absent from the digital economy – we want to change that.”

Muzinda Hub is an impact investment initiative of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe that was established in 2014. It has trained over 3000 entry-level developers, creating nearly 2000 freelancing and employment opportunities for its graduates.

Laura Lombardo, Senior Project Coordinator at Theirworld, said:  “The collaboration between Theirworld and Muzinda Hub will strengthen and consolidate the efforts of both organisations to make coding and ICT more accessible and appealing, particularly to young women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa. 

“It’s a huge challenge that no one can tackle alone and we are very much looking forward to launching the initiative in early 2019 in partnership with Muzinda.”

Econet and Theirworld are both members of the Global Business Coalition for Education, which brings together companies, governments, foundations and philanthropists to make an impact in education.