Women Urged to Embrace Digital Skills and AI Reskilling Amid Caregiving Responsibilities

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — Women leaders, professionals and changemakers have been urged to embrace continuous learning and digital skills development in order to remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving workplace shaped by artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation.

The call was made during this year’s Mother’s Day Dinner organized by Hold a Sister’s Hand (HASH), which brought together influential women from different sectors for high-level discussions under the theme “Reskilling While Caregiving.” The event focused on empowering mothers and caregivers to balance family responsibilities while adapting to the changing demands of the modern workforce.

The HASH Mother’s Day Dinner 2026 was sponsored by CRDB Bank Plc, Schweppes, Brutal Fruit, Ctrl Creative, Asilia African Honey, Serenity Beauty Bar and More With Mau, whose support contributed to the success of the event.

Held at Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam, the event attracted more than 100 women including corporate executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, technology experts, bankers and young professionals committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership in the digital age. 

 Speakers at the event emphasized that the rise of AI and digital technologies is transforming industries globally, creating both opportunities and challenges for women. They noted that many working mothers risk being left behind if they fail to upgrade their skills and embrace innovation-driven careers.

Founder and CEO of Bloom Wellness, Sophia Byanaku, who delivered the keynote address, encouraged women to prioritize both personal wellness and professional growth, stressing that resilience and adaptability are becoming essential skills in the future of work.

Cyber Security Expert and CEO of Serensic Africa, Esther Lugoe Mengi, challenged women to break barriers in technology and cybersecurity during her presentation on “Bridging the Digital Glass Ceiling.” She emphasized the need for greater female representation in emerging technologies and digital leadership spaces. 

 

Meanwhile, Founder and CEO of Unleashed Africa Social Enterprises, Khalila Mbowe, highlighted concerns over bias in artificial intelligence systems used in recruitment and promotions. She warned that unless ethical safeguards are introduced, AI could reinforce workplace inequalities instead of eliminating them.

The discussions explored critical issues affecting women in the digital era, including bridging the digital gender gap in AI adoption, ethical leadership, responsible use of technology, and addressing bias in AI-driven recruitment and promotions. Participants also highlighted the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, networking and mentorship in helping women remain relevant in highly competitive environments.

Founder of HASH Tanzania, Vivian Temi, said the initiative aims to create a supportive community where women can openly discuss challenges facing mothers and caregivers in workplaces increasingly influenced by automation and digital systems.

“We want women to understand that caregiving should never limit their dreams, ambitions or leadership potential. Women deserve opportunities to grow, reskill and thrive while still taking care of their families,” she said.

A fireside discussion featuring Veronica Muumba, Head of Talent Management at CRDB Bank Plc, and moderated by Maureen Njeri, Head of Brand and Marketing at Settlo Technologies Limited, highlighted how institutions can create supportive environments for employees balancing caregiving and career advancement.

The discussion showcased how progressive workplace policies such as flexible working arrangements, mentorship programs, wellness initiatives and digital upskilling opportunities are helping women thrive professionally while maintaining family responsibilities.

Participants also took part in an interactive panel discussion moderated by Lucy Tomeka, featuring Shumbana Walwa of Equity Bank Tanzania, emotional intelligence counselor Ngianasia Marealle Minja and Kai Mollel of Stanbic Bank Tanzania. The panelists shared practical experiences on overcoming workplace barriers, adapting to technological shifts and building sustainable careers while caregiving.

Many attendees called for stronger workplace policies that support women through flexible work arrangements, access to digital training, affordable childcare services and inclusive leadership programs that promote gender equality in decision-making spaces.

The event concluded with a renewed call for governments, private sector institutions and development partners to invest more in women’s digital empowerment and skills development to ensure they fully participate in shaping the future economy.

Participants agreed that empowering women with technology, financial literacy and leadership skills is not only critical for gender equality, but also essential for sustainable social and economic development across Africa in the digital age.