Youths who graduated with an internationally recognised digital literacy certification
under the International Certification of Digital Literacy (ICDL) programme./HANDOUT.
Nairobi County Government is stepping up efforts to prepare young people for opportunities in the digital economy.
This is after 11 youths graduated with internationally recognised digital literacy certification under the International Certification of Digital Literacy (ICDL) programme.
The initiative, spearheaded by the county’s Digital Economy and Startups subsector, seeks to equip young people with practical digital skills needed for employment, entrepreneurship and participation in the rapidly growing technology sector.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Nairobi Digital Economy and Startups chief officer Wilson Gakuya said the county is keen to ensure young people are not left behind as industries increasingly adopt digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
He noted that digital skills are becoming essential for employment, innovation and entrepreneurship, adding that the programme aligns with Governor Johnson Sakaja’s vision of positioning Nairobi as a leading digital and innovation hub.
“Technology is changing how people work and do business. We want young people in Nairobi to be equipped with the skills needed to compete for jobs, create enterprises and take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy,” said Gakuya.
Gakuya added that, to support their transition into the digital space, each graduand also received a laptop donated by Computer Aid International through its Kenyan partnership programmes.
The laptops are expected to help the graduates access online learning, digital jobs and business opportunities while enhancing their ability to work remotely and competitively in the digital economy.
According to the 2026 Economic Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, the Information and Communication sector grew by 4.8 per cent in 2025, highlighting the increasing role of technology in driving Kenya’s economy.
The report also showed growing demand for digital connectivity and online services as more sectors adopt technology-driven operations.
Recent data from the Communications Authority of Kenya further indicates that Internet usage and smartphone adoption continue to rise, especially among young people and urban populations.
Nairobi leads the country in Internet usage at 64.7 per cent, reflecting the city’s growing position as a digital and innovation hub.
Kenya’s expanding digital economy has also contributed to the growth of online and gig work opportunities.
A recent report on Kenya’s economic performance estimates that more than 1.5 million Kenyans are earning income through digital platforms, including freelancing, ride-hailing, online businesses and content creation.
Director for Digital Economy and Startups Elizabeth Ndungu challenged the graduates to remain innovative and adaptable in the fast-changing technology environment.
She urged them to embrace creativity, continuous learning and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to remain competitive in the job market.
Operations at Computer Aid International director Martin Kimani said the programme is helping bridge the digital divide while creating pathways for youth empowerment and economic advancement.
“This initiative is not just about training. It is about giving young people the tools and confidence to participate in the digital economy and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
One of the graduates, Lena Mukundi, described the programme as life-changing, saying the training and laptop support would significantly improve graduates’ ability to pursue careers, online jobs and business opportunities in the digital space.
