Impact stories from Commitment Makers: The Launchpad Tanzania

Photo credit: The Launchpad Tanzania
 

Impact Stories from Generation Equality Commitment Makers Working in the Action Coalition on Gender-Based Violence in ESAR: The Launchpad Tanzania

Since its launch in 2017, LP Digital, a program under The Launchpad Tanzania, has been a catalyst for change in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the digital space. Focused on combating online harassment, bridging the digital divide, and fostering safer online environments for women and youth, LP Digital has become a cornerstone of empowerment and innovation across Tanzania. The program’s three core pillars of Capacity Building, Digital Rights and Safe Online Spaces, and Advocacy and Awareness have had a profound impact on individuals and communities across Tanzania.

Empowering Women and Combating Online Harassment: The Transformative Impact of LP Digital in Tanzania

ne of the program’s key achievements has been the empowerment of women through digital skills training. In collaboration with Tigo Mjasiriamali Box, LP Digital offers specialized training in digital marketing, financial literacy, and content creation. Participants, such as Amina, have shared transformative experiences, moving from having no online presence to confidently managing their own digital marketing efforts. This training has not only opened new economic opportunities for women but has also enhanced their confidence in navigating the digital world. Addressing online harassment head-on, LP Digital launched a Cyber Helpline, providing victims with legal support, guidance, and mental health resources. This initiative has proven invaluable, offering immediate assistance to those facing harassment online and in public spaces, such as workplaces and schools. The helpline has also played an important role in educating bystanders on how to intervene and prevent further harassment. According to Loy, a program lead, this has created a more supportive and proactive community, where everyone plays a role in reducing violence.

The digital future is here, and we need to ensure it includes everyone safely and equitably. - Jacquiline, a programe advocate, emphasizes during the Women in AI Breakfast.

The program’s commitment to fostering innovation is seen through its SheTech Incubator, which supports women-led startups in sectors such as FinTech, HealthTech, and AgriTech. By providing digital skills training and resources, LP Digital enables women to create solutions that specifically address their needs and challenges. This approach not only reduces their vulnerabilities to GBV but also encourages economic independence and leadership within the tech industry.

LP Digital’s work goes beyond technology; it is a critical piece in the broader fight for gender equality and digital rights. By aligning its initiatives with global goals, especially SDG 5 on gender equality and SDG 9 on industry and innovation, LP Digital is helping to shape a future where marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, are not left behind in the digital revolution. Jacquiline, a program advocate, emphasizes, “The digital future is here, and we need to ensure it includes everyone safely and equitably.”

Through its capacity-building programs, advocacy efforts, and support for women-led innovations, LP Digital is not just shaping Tanzania’s digital landscape—it is creating a safer, more inclusive digital world for women and girls.