Organisation highlights technology's power to amplify women's voices, combat stigma and transform viral solidarity into lasting social impact.
DNS WomenNG has called for greater use of digital technology to advance women's dignity, inclusion and empowerment, following the nationwide attention generated by the Mama Ukehe phenomenon in Enugu State, reports ITREALMS.
The organisation described the public response to Mama Ukehe's emotional experience at her husband's traditional Ozo title-taking ceremony as a compelling demonstration of how digital platforms can transform an individual experience into a national conversation and mobilise solidarity across geographical, ethnic and social boundaries.
The viral story, which attracted widespread attention and support from Nigerians at home and abroad, underscores the growing power of technology to amplify women's voices and bring previously overlooked experiences into public discourse.
"The Mama Ukehe story reminds us that a smartphone can be more than a communication device. It can become an instrument for social awareness, advocacy, solidarity and positive change," DNS WomenNG stated.
The organisation stressed that a woman's dignity and social worth should never be determined by her reproductive capacity, marital circumstances or ability to bear biological children. It called for greater awareness and action against infertility stigma, emotional abuse, discrimination and social exclusion.
DNS WomenNG identified three priority areas where technology can make a meaningful difference; digital inclusion and advocacy: Expanding women's access to affordable internet, digital literacy, devices and opportunities to participate in the digital economy, while using online platforms to challenge harmful stereotypes.
- Digital support and health awareness: Leveraging digital communities, reliable reproductive health information, counselling referrals and responsible online fundraising to support vulnerable women.
- Online safety and privacy: Protecting women against cyberbullying, harassment, exploitation, misinformation and the unauthorised circulation of personal information.
The organisation cautioned against turning personal experiences into online entertainment or conducting trials by social media, emphasising the importance of responsible reporting, privacy and respect for everyone involved.
DNS WomenNG urged government institutions, traditional rulers, technology companies, telecommunications operators, women's organisations and civil society groups to leverage the Mama Ukehe phenomenon to strengthen digital inclusion and build sustainable support systems for women, particularly those in rural and underserved communities.
It noted that Nigeria's digital development agenda must go beyond broadband penetration, mobile subscriptions and emerging technologies to embrace the human impact of connectivity, including its capacity to protect vulnerable people and promote social inclusion.
DNS WomenNG reaffirmed its commitment to promoting an inclusive digital environment where women can participate, lead, innovate and benefit from internet opportunities.
"Behind every viral video is a human being deserving of dignity, empathy and respect. Technology has helped bring Mama Ukehe's story to national attention. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that the attention generates meaningful and lasting change for women everywhere."
Technology can amplify a woman's voice, but society must provide the lasting change.
ITREALMS recalls that DNS WomenNG is a women-focused initiative within Nigeria's Domain Name System (DNS) and internet ecosystem, committed to advancing women's participation, visibility, empowerment and leadership in the digital space.
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