The digital transformation underway in Africa aims, among other things, to equip populations with essential digital skills to adapt to the demands of the modern world. It is crucial that this modernization be inclusive, ensuring everyone can benefit from the opportunities the digital age offers.

The British government has announced a funding of 390 million shillings ($3.02 million) to improve digital access in Kenya. This information was revealed on Monday, September 23, by the British Deputy High Commissioner to Kenya, Ed Barnett (, left), during the launch of a digital agricultural project in Busia County. The funding is aimed at enhancing digital access in the counties of Busia and Mandera, specifically for marginalized populations.

"Putting young people, women and persons with disabilities at the heart of development is transformative. The UK is committed to working with Kenya to ensure these underserved groups within the population enhance their digital skills and their access to vital services like e-citizen, secure jobs and participate meaningfully in this digital world," said Ed Barnett.

This initiative is part of the "Strengthening Digital Communities" project, which seeks to promote the digital inclusion of marginalized groups in these regions. The goal is to reach more than 190,000 people, including 10,000 young people, while contributing to Kenya's ambition to train 20 million citizens in digital skills by 2027.

The collaboration between the British High Commission and the Kenya Information Communication and Technology Action Network (KICTANet) will particularly focus on digital employability. It will identify high-potential young women and youth, training them in job-ready skills, mentoring, financial management, and entrepreneurship.

The financial support will also facilitate ongoing digitization efforts in Busia and Mandera counties, through community awareness campaigns on cybersecurity, digital hygiene, and the benefits of digital inclusion. Furthermore, the project will support the production of research, policy briefs, and other strategic documents aimed at improving public ICT policies.

Samira Njoya