…Low female representation in AI raises concerns over bias, innovation
By Juliet ETEFE
Women make up roughly 20–30 percent of the global artificial intelligence (AI) workforce, but their representation stands at about 12 percent in core research roles, according to UNESCO, with other reports highlighting broader gaps for women in technology.
The disparity underscores a persistent gender imbalance in one of the world’s fastest-growing and most influential technology fields, with experts warning it could embed bias in AI systems and limit innovation.
The concern was highlighted during an International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 webinar organised by MentorUs Africa under the theme “She Secures the Future: Women Leading in Cybersecurity & STEM.”
The virtual event brought together cybersecurity experts and industry leaders who discussed the need for mentorship, inclusive workplace policies and early exposure to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to enable more women to thrive in the digital economy.
Mentorship, learning and inclusion
Confidence Staveley, a renowned Nigerian cybersecurity expert and Founder of CyberSafe Foundation, emphasised mentorship as a critical driver for advancing women in technology.
She also stressed the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of women in technology.
“Just because we did not have someone to open doors for us before doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do it now,” she said.
She warned that the lack of female representation in technology development teams could expose women to risks, citing deepfakes, digital harassment and covert surveillance tools increasingly used to target women online.
“If women were involved when these technologies were developed, they would ask: How do you protect us? Inclusion is not optional; it is essential,” she said.
Early exposure and continuous learning
Ms. Confidence Staveley stressed the need for structured early exposure to STEM, arguing that occasional career talks are insufficient to drive long-term change.
“We need to introduce these subjects structurally within the education system. Exposure must start early so girls understand the opportunities and can aspire to them,” she said.
She also underscored the importance of continuous learning in cybersecurity, given the rapid pace of technological change.
“There’s no way you can rely on knowledge from 10 years ago. In the infosec space, we must keep learning; we cannot afford to be left behind,” she said.
She urged women to remain resilient and confident in their professional journeys. “Never undermine small beginnings. Take opportunities seriously, develop yourself, and someone will notice,” she said, adding: “The scars you have are your medals, they demonstrate resilience and growth.”
Sithembile Songo & Confidence Staveley
Retention and systemic support
Sithembile Songo, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Eskom, South Africa, echoed these sentiments noting that while more women are entering STEM fields, retention remains a major challenge.
“Retention is where we have really dropped the ball,” she said, pointing to workplace gaps that disproportionately affect women, particularly during motherhood.
She highlighted issues such as inadequate maternity support and limited flexibility, which can slow career progression.
“The maternity leave is given to you, but sometimes you pay for it with slower promotions or stalled career progression,” she noted, adding that many women are often forced to choose between advancing their careers and raising families.
Beyond workplace policies, Ms. Sithembile Songo emphasised the role of strong personal support systems in career advancement.
“Career success is influenced not only by workplaces but also by the environment around you. Your partner must be the wind behind your sail,” she said.
Mr. Eric Kwaku Mensah, a cybersecurity expert in Ghana and Co-founder of MentorUs Africa highlighted the broader economic case for gender inclusion in STEM, noting that gender inclusion in STEM fields is critical for innovation and national development.
“International Women’s Day is not only about celebrating achievements but also about recognising that empowering women in STEM strengthens our industries and economies,” he said.
For Joseph Quaye, a Ghanaian cybersecurity expert and co-founder of MentorUs Africa closing the gender gap in technology requires coordinated action.
“It demands commitment from institutions, families and individuals,” he said, commending the speakers for providing practical guidance and inspiration.
Speakers agreed that bridging the gender gap in technology is both a social and economic imperative, with mentorship, inclusive policies and supportive ecosystems key to ensuring women play a greater role in shaping the future of technology.
MentorUs Africa Initiative
MentorUs Africa is a strategic mentorship initiative designed to address critical skills shortages in Africa’s digital economy by connecting seasoned professionals with emerging talent across cybersecurity, financial crimes management, artificial intelligence and compliance.
The programme represents a scalable intervention to harness Africa’s youth demographic dividend while strengthening the continent’s capacity to participate effectively in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Through structured mentorship relationships, knowledge transfer programmes and practical skills development, MentorUs Africa directly contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The post Women underrepresented in AI, about 12% in research roles – experts call for change appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.
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