The Digital Access Programme led by KICTANet through the Strengthening Digital Communities (SDC) project is actively making progress in closing the digital gap in Teso North Sub-County.
This initiative, supported by the UK government, KICTANet, and the Busia County Government, aims at equipping youth, women, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with crucial digital skills, which are essential in the ever-changing technological world.
A key focus of the programme is cyber security, digital safety, and mental health awareness whereby they teach participants about safe online practices, responsible communication, and strong data protection measures.
This is to ensure that the participants are able to manoeuvre the many challenges brought forth by online platforms like online gender-based violence (GBV) and also to safeguard their mental health.
Speaking at Malaba, the Chief Officer Youths Affairs, Sports and Tourism Dennis Ngira praised the impact of the initiative by sharing positive testimonials from beneficiaries who used digital skills to enhance their economic standings as well as their online security.
“This programme is a game changer for our communities. We are witnessing real change where women, business owners and the youth are acquiring skills that allow them to navigate and exploit the digital world safely and efficiently,” he said.
These sentiments were echoed by Director of Youth Development for Busia County Meshack Tumaini, who said that digital literacy is very essential especially in the current world where technological advancement is at its peak.
“Everyone ought to be educated on digital skills so that they can be able to cope with the ever-changing technological world,” stated Tumaini.
Residents of Teso North lauded this initiative by highlighting its importance in bridging the digital divide by promoting digital literacy.
“Digital literacy equipped me with skills on identifying cyber threats and how to protect my online accounts. This knowledge will help me safeguard my personal data and also educate others on the importance of online security,” said Ruth Akinyi, a resident of Malaba.
With continued support from stakeholders, the Digital Access Programme will further broaden its scope which will help even more people from Busia County to be able to use technology for their businesses and daily activities.
By Owen Mutai
