#EmbraceEquity: Women in Earth Observation Science in Africa

Earth Observation (EO) science is a rapidly growing field, crucial in understanding and addressing some of the world's most pressing environmental and societal challenges. However, despite its significance, African women are underrepresented in this field, facing numerous barriers that limit their participation and success.

According to a recent study by the European Space Agency, women make up only 28% of the Earth Observation workforce globally, with even lower representation in leadership positions. In Africa, women are particularly underrepresented in earth observation science and related fields such as geography, remote sensing, and geoinformatics. The African Women in Science and Technology Network (AWSTN) report found that only 15% of students enrolled in Earth Observation science programs in Africa are women. Also, a study by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) found that women are significantly underrepresented in Earth Observation in Africa, with only 8% of scientists and technicians in Earth Observation being women. These statistics demonstrate the significant disparity between the representation of women and men in Earth Observation science in Africa and highlight the need for continued efforts to increase the participation and success of women in this field.

The barriers to women's participation in Earth Observation science in Africa are complex and multifaceted. They include discrimination and bias in education and career advancement, lack of role models and mentors in the field, and inadequate facilities and resources for women in fieldwork. Despite these challenges, there is also a growing recognition of the importance of increasing the representation of women in Earth Observation science in Africa. Numerous initiatives aim to empower women and girls in this field, from educational programs and training opportunities to networking and mentorship initiatives.

One example of such initiatives is the GMES and Africa programme, which aims to strengthen Africa's Earth Observation capacity and uses satellite data to address environmental and socioeconomic challenges on the continent. Through the programme, women in Africa can develop their skills and knowledge in earth observation science and contribute to creating sustainable and equitable solutions for Africa's environmental and societal challenges.

The GMES and Africa project has 8 consortia spread across the length and breadth of Africa. The University of Ghana is one of the leading centres in Africa implementing the Marine and Coastal areas Management in North and West Africa (MarCNoWA). The MarCNoWA consortium has several key activities and initiatives to empower women in EO-related activities.

 

Under the auspices of the GMES and Africa programme, MarCNoWA aims to increase the involvement of women in Earth Observation and marine conservation efforts. To achieve this, the consortium is partnering with schools, universities, NGOs, and other initiatives to integrate Earth Observation activities into the curriculum, providing mentorship opportunities, engaging with the local community, launching social media campaigns, creating a podcast series, and capacity-building activities, among others. All these efforts aim to raise awareness and promote engagement among women in Earth Observation and inspire them to pursue careers in the field.

As the World celebrates International Women's Day on the 8th of March 2023, with the theme "Digital Innovation and Technology for Gender Equity", the status of women in Earth Observation science in Africa is a critical issue that requires continued attention and action. By increasing women’s representation in this field, Africa can improve the quality and effectiveness of Earth Observation research and ensure a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

#EmbraceEquity  

Source: Phyllis Akua Amamoo, Gender & Youth Advocacy Officer, Regional Marine Centre