Beyond the Screen: Unveiling Zimbabwe’s Digital Divide Challenges

By Wadzanai Ndlovu In a world that increasingly relies on digital connectivity, access to the internet has become synonymous with empowerment and opportunity. However, the digital divide in Zimbabwe isn't merely a matter of haves and have-nots; it's a complex web of disparities influenced by the intersection of gender, race, and socioeconomic status. This article peels back the layers of this multifaceted issue, shedding light on how these factors conspire to create additional hurdles for marginalized groups in Zimbabwe as they strive to access the digital realm. At first glance, Zimbabwe's digital landscape appears promising, with approximately 22% of the population having internet access. However, a closer look reveals a grim urban-rural divide. Urban areas are more likely to enjoy internet connectivity, leaving their rural counterparts at a severe disadvantage. In this unequal terrain, the intersectionality of gender, race, and socioeconomic status further deepens the divides. The intersection of gender with the digital divide reveals a stark reality. Education is the foundation of digital literacy, and in Zimbabwe, women face unequal access to quality education, deeply rooted in cultural norms and socioeconomic limitations.