Communications minister says innovation must protect women’s safety and dignity
Mkhize says meaningful technological progress must improve lives while protecting the safety and dignity of women.
South Africa's Communications and Digital Technologies Minister, Solly Mkhize, stressed the importance of innovation protecting women's safety and dignity during the opening of the GovTech 2026 engagement in Durban. He urged men to challenge behaviours contributing to gender inequality and violence. Mkhize emphasized that innovation should be measured by its impact on women's safety and dignity, not just by technological advancements.
He highlighted that 98% of households now have internet access, but internet costs remain prohibitively high for many. The minister also addressed fragmented digital systems in government, stating that addressing this issue is crucial for efficient service delivery. Mkhize stressed the need to improve trust in digital government by ensuring data security and protection of citizens' rights.
He emphasized that digital sovereignty is a crucial aspect of South Africa's growth plans, particularly with its strategic geographical location. The minister suggested positioning South Africa as a global submarine cable and digital infrastructure hub, which could drive investment, economic growth, and job creation. He encouraged officials to be honest about challenges and commit to doing better, ensuring that technological innovations and solutions deliver a seamless digital experience for citizens and the state.
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