Lindiwe Majele Sigashe

A pioneering South African tech policy expert driving Africa's digital transformation and gender equality in technology

Lindiwe Majele Sigashe is a groundbreaking South African policy maker and tech advocate whose work has redefined Africa's approach to digital innovation and gender equity. As former Deputy Minister of Science and Technology and current Chair of the Board of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope project, she has been instrumental in positioning Africa as a global leader in scientific research and technology adoption.

Her visionary leadership established South Africa's National Broadband Policy, connecting millions through affordable internet access while championing women's participation in STEM fields. Through initiatives like the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC), she facilitated continent-wide internet infrastructure development. Sigashe's advocacy led to policies ensuring 40% female representation in tech innovation councils across 15 African nations.

As UN Women's Global Champion for Gender Parity in Tech, she co-founded the Women's Entrepreneurship Hub, supporting 500+ African female tech startups. Her 2019 TED Talk "How to Build a Digitally Inclusive Africa" has inspired global tech leaders. Current projects include the Africa Digital Summit and AI4D initiative addressing ethical AI deployment in developing regions.

Her work bridges technology and human rights, recently collaborating with the Article 19 organization to protect digital privacy in post-conflict African states. Sigashe's influence extends to policy frameworks adopted by the African Union, ensuring tech advancements align with socio-economic development goals.