International Women’s Day 2026: CA celebrates women driving digital transformation

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has highlighted that women are driving innovation, resilience, and leadership in the country’s digital ecosystem.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day 2026, CA women are increasingly leveraging information and communication technologies (ICTs) to grow businesses, access markets, pursue education, manage households, obtain healthcare information, and participate in governance and civic life.

The Authority noted that ICTs are transforming the role of women in families, society, and the national economy.

“Women are key drivers of Kenya’s digital transformation,” said CA. “Their engagement in ICTs is empowering households, creating opportunities for economic growth, and shaping an inclusive and equitable digital landscape.”

The inclusive nature of Kenya’s digital ecosystem is reflected in recent data from the Communications Authority and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).

The 2024 report indicates that 52.9 per cent of females owned mobile phones compared to 54.5 per cent of males, with usage rates at 64.4 per cent for females and 65.5 per cent for males.

Internet usage stood at 32.2 per cent for females versus 37.7 per cent for males, while 10.1 per cent of women used computers compared to 13.1 per cent of men.

Among youth aged 18–34 years, mobile ownership reached 80.7 per cent for females and 82.4 per cent for males, with Internet usage at 54.8 per cent for females and 62.3 per cent for males.

In alignment with this year’s global theme, “Give to Gain,” the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to programs that foster inclusive digital transformation and empower women to achieve their digital potential.

These initiatives include the Universal Access and Service Expansion, which seeks to extend connectivity to unserved and underserved areas, ensuring women and girls in rural and marginalized communities are not digitally excluded.

Efforts to safeguard consumer rights are also underway, including enhancing awareness, strengthening complaint resolution mechanisms, and promoting safer digital spaces for all. Additionally, the Authority is fostering innovation and inclusion, enabling a competitive, secure, and accessible communications ecosystem that supports women-led enterprises and digital participation.

“Ensuring equitable representation of women in Kenya’s digital life is central to achieving equitable socio-economic development,” CA added. “When women are connected and represented, families are empowered, communities are informed, and the nation prospers.”

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also drawing attention to the ongoing challenges they face, including discrimination, violence, and unequal access to opportunities.

Globally, governments, civil society organisations, and activists are using the occasion to advocate for stronger policies that promote gender equality, equal pay, access to education, and greater representation of women in leadership roles.