The EmpowerHer project took a significant step toward closing the gender digital divide in Kenya by launching its first Virtual Technical Induction Session for Women Digital Champions. This initiative is designed to accelerate the adoption of digital technology among women in rural and low-income areas within Nairobi, Kisumu, and Nyandarua counties. By focusing on economic empowerment, the project aims to ensure that women are not left behind in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The Power of the Trainer-of-Trainers (ToT) Model
At the heart of this project is a Trainer-of-Trainers (ToT) model, which utilizes 300 selected Women Digital Champions. These community facilitators are tasked with delivering practical, relevant, and contextual digital skills to their peers at the grassroots level. Each champion will mentor at least 50 women, creating a cascade effect intended to reach a total of 15,000 women, including farmers, market vendors, entrepreneurs, and young mothers.
Equipping Champions for Success
The virtual induction, held on June 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. via Zoom, served as the pivotal first step in this model. The session was designed to:
- Build a shared sense of identity and purpose among the 300 champions.
- Equip ToTs with the technical knowledge to configure and manage the project’s helpdesk platform and Zoom.
- Ensure champions can independently navigate these tools to support the 15,000 women they will mentor.
A Robust Technical Support Ecosystem
To ensure the long-term success of these champions, KICTANet is establishing a comprehensive support structure. A digital help desk will be run by county coordinators, supported by IT team from the Tatua Digital Resilience Centre. This help desk will assist ToTs and participants with specific technical challenges, such as:
- Accessing online government service portals.
- Enhancing device security and troubleshooting technical issues.
- Navigating mobile loans and setting up online marketplaces.
Furthermore, the project will host digital health clinics – both virtually and during in-person events – to provide hands-on troubleshooting for any technical barriers that prevent women from utilizing their devices effectively. By leveraging the existing expertise of the Tatua Digital Resilience Centre, the project ensures that participants have the resilience to recover from and navigate digital threats.
Conclusion
Through this technical induction, the EmpowerHer project has not just taught digital skills; it has built a sustainable network of support. By empowering 300 women with the tools and confidence to manage digital platforms, the initiative paves the way for 15,000 women to claim their space in Kenya’s digital future.
For support with digital resilience assessments, cyber hygiene training, or policy development, reach out to us at info@tatua.digital or help@tatua.digital to submit a ticket. Watch our Cyber Hygiene series on YouTube or Digital Security Resources for accessible tips.
