Kenya, Lithuania Link Digital Skills to Jobs for Youth and Women
By Editorial Team
NAIROBI, March 24, 2026 — Kenya has stepped up efforts to turn digital inclusion into an economic driver, as public and private sector leaders push to equip women and youth with skills for business growth.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), working with the Vilnius Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts and backed by the European Union, hosted the Women’s Entrepreneurship and Digital Literacy Conference in Nairobi. The forum marked progress under the Skills4Women and Youth in Kenya programme.
Speaking at the event, KNCCI President Erick Rutto said empowering women and youth is no longer just a social goal but a key economic strategy. He noted that more than 75 percent of Kenya’s population is under 35, while women lead a large share of the country’s 7.4 million micro, small and medium enterprises, which contribute about 40 percent of the GDP.
He warned that opportunity without skills widens inequality and stressed the need to equip entrepreneurs with tools and market access. As a result, he said, businesses can shift from survival mode to sustainable growth.
At the same time, the Skills for Women and Youth Programme has already exceeded expectations. It has trained 478 small businesses almost four times its original target and deployed 138 certified trainers across all 47 counties.
Meanwhile, ICT Principal Secretary Mary Kerema outlined the government’s plan to build what she called an “intelligent economy.” She said the strategy focuses on expanding 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable, setting up 1,450 digital hubs, and improving access to affordable devices and public Wi-Fi.
In addition, the government is rolling out flexible policies, including regulatory sandboxes, to support innovation while ensuring data protection. Kerema emphasized that true inclusion goes beyond access, urging women to take up roles as creators and leaders in the digital space.
On the global front, Lithuania reaffirmed its partnership with Kenya. Lithuanian Vice Minister Vidmantas Verbickas described Kenya as a key partner in Africa, citing its strong economic potential and vibrant private sector.
He said the partnership focuses on building digital skills, strengthening business ties and delivering long-term impact. He added that Lithuania’s approach aligns with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy on sustainable investment and digital transformation.
Looking ahead, Verbickas promised deeper cooperation through trade programmes and future missions.
The conference also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between KNCCI and the Vilnius Chamber to strengthen business links. KNCCI Chief Executive Officer KK Mutai said the Chamber Business Academy will continue to offer mentorship and training to sustain the gains made in digital skills development.
