The Ntha Foundation proudly participated in the opening day of the 2024 Women & Girls in Cyber Conference, a groundbreaking event hosted by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) from August 13th to 15th at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, Malawi. This year’s theme, “Inspiring the Next Generation: Empowering Future Women Cybersecurity Professionals,” set the stage for an inspiring and impactful gathering focused on empowering women and girls in the cybersecurity sector.
Representing the Ntha Foundation were our esteemed business development associates Yankho Kamtukulo, Concern Matita, and Abigail Zingani. Their presence underscored the foundation’s commitment to advancing the participation of women in technology and cybersecurity.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Opening Ceremony
The day began with a vibrant opening ceremony at 9:00 AM. Mrs. Bridget Chibwana, MACRA’s Board Chairperson, delivered the welcome remarks, setting a positive tone for the event. The ceremony featured a performance and speeches from notable figures, including the Minister of Information and Digitalization, Hon. Moses Kunkuyu Kalongashawa, and a keynote address by the First Lady of the Republic of Malawi, Her Excellency Madam Monica Chakwera. Her speech emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of women leaders in cybersecurity, stressing the need for collective action to bridge the gender gap in this critical field.
The sessions that followed included:
- Exploring Cybersecurity Careers: Presentations by Jacklyne Mbuthia, Exile Njoka, and a firechat with Malawi CERT’s first responders.
- Call to Action: A motivating statement by MACRA DG Daud Suleman encouraging attendees to take proactive steps in their cybersecurity careers.
- Encouraging Girls in STEM: Strategies presented by Elizabeth Mwale from Techpearl.
Afternoon Sessions
The afternoon featured:
- Panel Discussion: “Pioneering the Future: Emerging Trends Shaping the Cybersecurity Landscape,” moderated by Constance Chongwe, with panelists Emma Kapambwe (ZICTA, Zambia), Priscilla Maliwichi (MUST, Malawi), and Ella Hamwaka.
- Emerging Technologies: Presentation by Musonda Kapaya on trends and advancements in cybersecurity.
- Breakout Session: Inspirational stories from young girls in cybersecurity.
Looking Forward
The conference continues until August 15th, with more exciting sessions and discussions lined up. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from this groundbreaking event!
Work With Us
Want to partner on or fund one of our programmes / initiatives? We are always open to collaborations and partnerships. Contact our Business Development Associate; Ms. Abigail Zingani via contact@kwathucentre.org, or give us a call(direct or WhatsApp) on +265991850749.
To keep up with the work of the Ntha Foundation, our hubs under the Kwathu Kollective, our initiatives, and our projects, follow us on social media:
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