In 2025, Kenya is witnessing a transformative shift in education. Across cities, towns and rural villages, digital learning hubs are opening doors for women and girls to access science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education for the first time. This access is driven by both government-backed digital literacy campaigns and grassroots organizations such as AkiraChix. These initiatives aim to close Kenya’s gender gap in the technology sector and position young women as leaders in the country’s growing digital economy.

Kenya’s Government Connecting the Gender Divide

Kenya has long been recognized as one of Africa’s technology pioneers, with its capital city, Nairobi, earning the nickname “Silicon Savannah” for its start-up ecosystem. However, despite this progress, Kenya’s gender gap in digital access remains significant. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), women occupy fewer than 30% of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) roles in Kenya, and mobile internet use is considerably lower among women than men.

To tackle this divide, Kenya’s government has launched several digital literacy initiatives under its Kenya Vision 2030 and national ICT strategy. These initiatives aim to expand computer access in schools, increase teacher training and extend technology access in low-income regions. The government’s 2030 goals would allow women and girls to gain stronger digital skills and develop a greater interest in STEM fields.

How AkiraChix Is Coding a New Future for Women

At the heart of this transformation is AkiraChix, a Nairobi-based nonprofit founded in 2010 that trains young women from underprivileged backgrounds in coding, design and entrepreneurship. AkiraChix runs a camp program that introduces girls to technology and design software. Its CodeHive program offers a fully subsidized, yearlong training in software development, product management and digital design for women ages 20-24.

According to AkiraChix’s 2022 Impact Report, more than 80% of graduates secure a placement or start their own ventures within six months of finishing the program. In its 2021 Impact Report, one 2020 alumna, Rebecca Wambui, said learning to code through the CodeHive program helped her realize that “I can also do this.” She has since developed a chatbot to help local farmers access affordable market prices.

Community Hubs Expand Rural Opportunities

Beyond Nairobi, a growing network of community digital learning hubs is making STEM education accessible in rural and low-income areas. UNESCO-supported programs have introduced more than 200 girls from 20 schools to robotics, mobile app design and 3D printing. Similar to AkiraChix’s programs, UNESCO bootcamps often give girls their first exposure to engineering and computer science. These programs play a key role in narrowing Kenya’s gender gap by increasing interest in STEM.

By equipping women with marketable STEM skills, Kenya is strengthening innovation and inclusive growth. Studies show that expanding digital access contributes directly to higher gross domestic product (GDP) and employment rates in developing nations. For graduates of AkiraChix, UNESCO programs and other digital hubs, the results include greater financial stability, improved livelihoods and stronger educational outcomes.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite these gains, challenges remain. Many rural areas still lack stable electricity or affordable data, limiting the reach of digital learning. Additionally, cultural norms and gender stereotypes continue to discourage girls from pursuing STEM, and the cost of devices remains a barrier for low-income families.

Experts emphasize the need for sustained investment in infrastructure, teacher training and the integration of digital skills in school curricula, supported by public and private partners.

Kenya’s expanding digital learning ecosystem demonstrates how innovation and equality can intersect to drive national progress. By giving women and girls the tools to thrive in STEM, the country is working to bridge its gender gap in technology and build a more inclusive future.

– Abigail Ariyo

Abigail is based in Ottawa, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash