Konza Technopolis has partnered with Microsoft to launch a new artificial intelligence (AI) skills programme targeting women.
The programme was unveiled during the inaugural Thrive, Elevate & Celebrate (TEC) Women Summit 2026, which brought together more than 200 stakeholders from the technology, creative, academic, government and non-government sectors.
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The summit was organised in partnership with EdSource through its Innovate Her initiative, with support from Microsoft and the International Labour Organization.
Speaking as chief guest, ICT, E-Government and Digital Economy Secretary Mary Kerema urged stakeholders to centre inclusion in Kenya’s digital transformation agenda. “The future of our digital economy will not be defined by how fast we connect systems, but by how deliberately we include women and youth. Women must be at the centre of designing, leading and transforming that future-not on the margins,” she said.
A key highlight of the summit was the launch of Microsoft’s AI Skills 4 Women Programme. This is a free online training initiative whose aim is to equip women with practical skills in around AI, cybersecurity, data analytics and responsible AI use. The programme also includes mentorship and leadership development components to support career growth in technology.
Microsoft National AI Skills Director Winnie Karanu said the programme reflects the company’s commitment to inclusive innovation as AI reshapes every sector of the economy.
“Every company is becoming a tech company. Every industry will rely on AI. History will be written by our actions and our ethics because the future is in our hands,” she said.
Discussions at the summit covered a wide range of topics shaping Kenya’s digital and creative economy, including gender-smart AI strategies, inclusive smart cities under the ‘Her City’ concept, building AI talent pipelines, digital rights and online safety, and financing for women-led enterprises.
Participants also adopted the TEC Summit Declaration, outlining ten priority actions aimed at strengthening women’s leadership in the digital economy. These include expanding access to digital opportunities, investing in inclusive skills development, unlocking financing for women-led ventures and promoting safe and rights-based digital spaces.
Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri said inclusion must be a non-negotiable pillar of Kenya’s digital future. “Women must not only participate in the AI revolution-they must lead it. At Konza, we are intentionally building an ecosystem where women have equal access to opportunities, leadership and innovation in shaping Africa’s Silicon Savannah,” he said.
He added that Konza has already met and exceeded the constitutional two-thirds gender rule, with women holding key positions across its board and senior management.
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