500 Women and Youth in Murang’a Equipped with Digital Skills to Boost Economic Inclusion

Murang’a, Kenya, August 26, 2025 – More than 500 women and youth from Murang’a County have successfully completed a five-day digital skills training program aimed at bridging the digital divide and unlocking new opportunities in business, employment, and innovation.

Now in its third edition in Murang’a, the program was spearheaded through a partnership between Huawei Kenya, Computers for Schools Kenya (CFSK), Joyful Women Organization, and MaMa Doing Good. The initiative focused on practical, market-relevant skills, equipping participants with the competencies needed to navigate Kenya’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Huawei Kenya’s Director of Public Affairs, Maureen Mwaniki, emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting digital empowerment among marginalized groups.

“We are thrilled to partner with MaMa Doing Good to empower women with the digital skills they need to thrive in today’s connected world. Our goal is to ensure digital empowerment reaches women across the country—driving inclusion and bridging the digital divide,” she said.

The training addressed a critical gap in digital literacy, particularly in rural areas where access to technology and ICT skills remains limited. According to the World Bank’s 2023 Digital Inclusion Report, only 38 percent of rural youth in Kenya possess basic ICT skills compared to 67 percent in urban areas a disparity that hampers equal access to economic opportunities.

MaMa Doing Good’s Director of Corporate Services, Joycelyn Mwikali, noted that digital literacy is no longer optional but a fundamental driver of resilience and independence.

“Digital skills are the new currency of opportunity. By equipping women and youth with these skills, we are enabling them to harness technology for entrepreneurship, freelancing, and innovation, while building stronger, more connected communities,” she said.

Organizers underscored that beyond basic literacy, the training was designed to empower participants to leverage digital tools for self-employment and e-commerce, preparing them for the future of work. The World Bank’s Future of Work report projects that more than 60 percent of jobs in Kenya by 2030 will demand advanced digital and cognitive skills, highlighting the urgency of investing in such programs.

The Murang’a initiative reflects a shared commitment by Huawei Kenya, CFSK, Joyful Women Organization, and MaMa Doing Good to position women and youth as leaders in Kenya’s digital transformation.

For the beneficiaries, the program marks a vital step toward greater inclusion and prosperity in a digital-first economy.