Dialog Axiata Renews Pledge to GSMA’s Connected Women Commitment Initiative to Empower Digital Inclusion

Photographed left to right - Gagandeep Manchanda, Sr. Market Engagement Manager, GSMA, Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive, Dialog Axiata PLC, Mats Granryd, Director General, GSMA, and Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion, GSMA

Reaffirming its dedication to gender equality and digital empowerment, Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka's #1 connectivity provider, renewed its pledge to the GSMA's Connected Women Commitment Initiative. This commitment underscores Dialog's dedication to eradicating digital divides and empowering Sri Lankan women through enhanced access to mobile internet and mobile money services.

The initiative is a response to the alarming gender gap in mobile phone ownership and usage in low- and middle-income households, which hinders women's participation in the digital world. Dialog joined forces with the GSMA’s Connected Women Programme in 2018 with an aim to address these barriers, recognizing that empowering women with digital tools not only promotes gender equality but also opens up significant growth avenues for industries.

"Dialog Axiata is committed to fostering inclusivity and sustainability in Sri Lanka’s digital landscape," stated Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC. "Our renewed commitment to the GSMA Connected Women Programme is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of connectivity. By empowering women, we not only advance their digital and financial inclusion but also catalyse broader socio-economic benefits, driving progress towards a more equitable society."

Commenting, Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at GSMA said, "Through the signing of the GSMAConnected Women Commitment, Dialog Axiata is demonstrating their dedication towards building a more inclusive society. Connecting women not only empowers them but also enriches communities, drives economic growth, and paves the way for a more equitable future. We applaud Dialog Axiata for their leadership and commitment to narrowing the gender gap in Sri Lanka."

This partnership aligns with Dialog Axiata’s broader commitment to sustainability and gender equality, particularly United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), and is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, sustainability, and continuous improvement across its operations. Through initiatives such as Yeheli.lk, Dialog continues to champion women’s empowerment, aiming to inspire and facilitate significant change in the lives of women across Sri Lanka, thereby contributing to the prosperity of communities, businesses, and the economy at large.