A new digital skills training initiative is set to tackle two major challenges in sub-Saharan Africa: the underrepresentation of women in technology and the growing demand for mid-level tech talent across the region.
The program called ‘Tech For Her’ is being rolled out by Airtel Africa Foundation, the corporate social investment arm of Airtel Africa plc, in partnership with Tertiary DNS, a pan-African technology education provider.
Over a five-week period, it will train 300 young women in high-demand digital areas such as Linux Administration, Cybersecurity, SQL, Data Analytics, DevOps, and Ethical Hacking.
Participants will undergo more than 100 hours of intensive training, delivered through a flexible online model that accommodates both working professionals (weekend sessions) and jobseekers (weekday sessions).
The programme is being launched simultaneously in Uganda, Kenya, and Zambia, with a long-term goal of scaling across the continent.
While it is framed as a philanthropic effort, the initiative represents a strategic move by Airtel Africa Foundation to address a digital talent shortage that is increasingly limiting innovation and competitiveness across African markets.
The initiative also confronts a longstanding gender imbalance in the sector where women currently make up just 30% of tech professionals, and only 2–8% of software development roles, according to UNESCO.
Speaking at the official launch in Uganda, held at Kawempe Public Library, Resty Ayona, Head of Performance and Rewards at Airtel Uganda, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative. “We live in a world where algorithms shape economies, but too many young women are excluded from this shift.”
She continued and said that the program is a pathway not just to skills, but to jobs and global opportunity. The top performers will not only earn certificates, but also qualify for internships with Airtel and mentorship from experienced global tech leaders.
To qualify, applicants must have basic digital literacy and at least a national diploma in science, technology, or related fields.
Beyond the core five-week program, graduates will receive 12 months of continued skills development, while those achieving a 90% pass rate or higher will gain access to structured mentorship and internship placements within Airtel Africa’s operational footprint.
Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, Chair of Airtel Africa Foundation and CEO of Airtel Africa plc, added. “Africa’s digital future will be shaped by those who have access to the right skills. Without gender equity in digital education, our economies risk leaving half the population behind.”
“Tech For Her is part of our effort to close that gap not with rhetoric, but with resources, training, and long-term opportunity,” he added.
The program places a strong emphasis on equity: 30% of participant slots are reserved for women from rural or underserved communities, while 40% will go to applicants from low-income households.
This reflects a broader strategy to unlock digital growth in segments of society traditionally excluded from the tech economy.
Annika Poutiainen, a committee member of the Airtel Africa Foundation, noted that the program was designed with long-term systemic impact in mind.
“We’re not just training coders we’re building a pipeline of African women who can lead in tech, innovate locally, and compete globally,” she said.
