The Fourth Industrial Revolution and Women in Zimbabwe Threats and Opportunities

Abstract

The world of work is undergoing a revolutionary change which has brought forth technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of ‘big data’. There has been a lot of debates regarding the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and how it will be received in developing countries especially in Africa. However very little attention is being given to how women fit into this process. This paper provides a nuanced analysis of the opportunities, threats and challenges posed by the 4IR for women in Zimbabwe. This paper will give an analysis that is specific to Zimbabwean women and how they fit into the 4IR. Automation in productive sectors is placing women’s employment at risk, as they are largely found in low-skill professions. It can be noted that in specific female-dominated industries, technology will reduce jobs. Achieving optimum gender equality is still far from being reached as women are constantly marginalized in Zimbabwe, hence the other misgiving in is that the 4IR, like the previous revolutions, will further entrench gender inequalities. This is based on the observation that most women are unlikely to benefit from technological advances, as they do not possess the skills to compete in the emerging knowledge economy. At the same time they are likely to experience the same improvements in the quality of life as everyone else. The paper’s main research question is what are the threats and opportunities that the 4IR brings to Zimbabwean women. This question will be answered through the use of qualitative research methodology. This study will also provide various recommendations on how to make the 4IR conducive for women in Zimbabwe so that they fit into the process without facing challenges.