KICTANet, in collaboration with the UK Government and partners, has marked the successful conclusion of the Strengthening Digital Communities (SDC) Project, which empowered over 500,000 citizens in Mandera and Busia with vital digital skills.
Held in Nairobi, the hybrid workshop brought together more than 150 stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and development organizations.
The SDC initiative aimed to bridge the digital divide in marginalized counties by training over 8,000 Community Digital Champions and providing foundational digital education to over 400,000 citizens.
Additionally, 150 computers were distributed in Mandera, enhancing access to digital services.
KICTANet CEO Dr. Grace Githaiga hailed the project’s impact, emphasizing the importance of sustained partnerships for long-term success.
Hon. William Kabogo, Cabinet Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, lauded the initiative’s role in driving innovation and digital inclusion, while pledging government support.
Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, Deputy Governor of Mandera, spoke emotionally about the project’s transformative reach.
“Five thousand young people in Mandera alone are no longer just dreamers—they are doers,” he said. “Digital transformation is about dignity and equal opportunity.”
Colin Sykes of the British High Commission reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Kenya’s digital growth, spotlighting stories like Sandis Wamalwa of Busia, who turned digital training into a livelihood.
The project also tackled Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence, training police and health workers, and supporting survivors with mental health services and local-language tools.
Aligning with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and the UK Digital Development Strategy, the SDC project has set the foundation for a more inclusive digital future.
Leaders from Garissa, Elgeyo Marakwet, Wajir, and Turkana counties were also present, reinforcing national support for digital empowerment.
