Teenage mothers are among hundreds of young people in Laikipia County set to benefit from a digital literacy initiative aimed at equipping them with skills to earn a living from the comfort of their homes.
The programme, a partnership between the Drawing Dreams Initiative (DDI) and the government’s Ajira Digital Programme under the State Department of ICT and the Digital Economy, is targeting at least 500 youths across the county.
Speaking during the training sessions, DDI founder Grace Wanene said the initiative focuses on practical digital skills using accessible tools such as smartphones, including the use of artificial intelligence in content creation.
“At the Ndoto Community Hub, we welcome young people to come with their laptops and smartphones and utilise our internet connection to learn and work online,” she said.
Wanene explained that the programme operates through community-based centres known as Ndoto Hubs, where Trainers of Trainers are equipped with digital and safety skills before cascading the knowledge to their peers.
She noted that the initiative seeks to transform youth—many of whom are heavily engaged with smartphones—from passive consumers of digital content into active creators.
“Through Ajira Digital training, youths are learning how to use their smartphones and other devices to access opportunities in the digital space and improve their livelihoods,” she added.
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Participants say the training is already making a difference. Gathoni Wanjiku, a content creator based in Nanyuki, said the programme has sharpened her skills and strengthened her resolve to pursue digital marketing full-time.
“I recently ventured into digital marketing and the training has given me the knowledge I need to grow my career further,” she said.
She added that the sessions have helped participants stand out in a crowded online space.
“Most of the time you find yourself posting content that looks similar to someone else’s, but everyone wants to stand out. We have learned how to use different apps to make our content more appealing and visible,” she said.
Wanjiku highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in lowering entry barriers for young people.
“Today, many AI tools are available for free. You can start your journey in digital marketing without even having capital,” she noted.
Another beneficiary, Dickson Wanjohi, said the training has enabled him to integrate technology into his photography business.
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“I have learned how to link my photography work with AI tools to make my work faster and more efficient,” he said.
He urged more young people to seize such opportunities and called for the expansion of the programme.
“I encourage more youth to attend the next training sessions and I appeal for more training days so that more people can benefit,” he said.
According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, mobile phone usage continues to rise steadily in the country, with approximately 43 million smartphones connected to mobile networks and 93 per cent of households owning at least one mobile phone.
Stakeholders say such trends present a significant opportunity for young people, including teenage mothers, to tap into the digital economy and build sustainable livelihoods.
By Kimutai Langat
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