Strengthening Digital Communities

1. Overview of the Project

1.1 Who is KICTANet?

KICTANet is a multi-stakeholder Think Tank for ICT policy and regulation. The Think Tank is a catalyst for reform in the Information and Communication Technology sector. KICTANet is dedicated to advancing digital rights, inclusivity, multistakeholderism and socio-economic development across Kenya.

1.2 What is the project about?

This project, led by KICTANet with support from the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme through the British High Commission in Nairobi, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, the County Governments of Busia and Mandera and various partners, aims to improve digital skills and access in the country. While the project has a national outcome, it also has a special focus on the two Counties of Mandera and Busia.

1.3 How does the project align with other digital strategies?

This project aligns with the UK Digital Development Strategy (DDS) 2024 -2030, focusing on Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion around digital inclusion for all. It also aligns with the Kenya Kwanza ambitious Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) enabled by the Government Transformational Digital Agenda (GoTDA) also known as the “Digital Superhighway” to grow the digital economy and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals especially 4 and 5. It also contributes to the achievement of Kenya’s National Digital Master Plan 2022-2032.

1.4 What are the main goals of the project?

The project aims to train 10,000 community digital champions (CDCs) on digital skills which will cascade the training to 500,000 citizens through direct contact, contributing to Kenya’s target of reaching 20 million digitally literate citizens by 2027.

1.5 Who can apply?

The project addresses the digital divide by targeting marginalized groups in Mandera and Busia counties, including women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and small-scale traders.

Why Mandera and Busia?

The project is being conducted nationwide for interventions that will be delivered online, with a special focus on Mandera (ASAL) and Busia (Non-ASAL) decided based on their food poverty ranking in Kenya. Food poverty incidence levels were higher and affected the majority of the population in Mandera (65.5%) and Busia (49%).

2. Key Project Areas

The project focuses on the following areas:

2.1 Foundational Digital Skills for All: The project focuses on delivering essential digital skills to access relevant digital content and services in sectors like agriculture, health, business, education, and government services.

2.2 Advanced Digital Skills & Employability for Youth: The project targets high-potential young women and other youth, providing them with intermediate to advanced digital employability skills, mentorship, financial literacy, entrepreneurial training, and psychological support. Community Digital Champions will play a role in building digital competence and readiness.

2.3 Awareness Campaigns for Inclusion: The project works alongside the Digital Access Program (DAP) partners, government agencies and disability organisations to raise awareness about digital inclusion through various communication channels, making digital skills and knowledge accessible to all.

2.4 Collaboration for Digital Access: We have partnered with ICT sector institutions and national/county governments to improve access to affordable internet, accessible devices, and digital platforms.

2.5 Engagement with Digital Service Providers: Coordinating with digital service providers to develop locally relevant digital content and services, including government services, accessible to citizens through a collaborative approach with government bodies, associations, and cooperatives.

2.6 Knowledge Products for Policy Guidance: To inform systemic improvements and advocate for policy reforms, the project creates materials such as journal articles, policy briefs, and multimedia content (webinars, podcasts, infographics)

2.7 AI and Emerging Technology Development: To support the growth of Kenya’s AI and emerging tech ecosystem, we focus on AI strategy, policies, safety, standards, guidelines, and regulatory frameworks to enhance the safe and innovative use of AI technology.

3. Project Partnerships

3.1 Government Partners:

The Ministry of Information Communication and Digital Economy: The ministry has responsibility for formulating, administering, managing and developing the Information, Broadcasting and Communication policy. Its vision is to make Kenya a competitive knowledge-based economy. Its mission is to facilitate universal access to ICT infrastructure and services all over the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development: The mandate of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development is to create an enabling environment for sustainable development of agriculture for food and nutrition security and economic development.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports: The ministry’s mission is to provide leadership, coordination and an enabling environment for youth empowerment and development of libraries, sports and Creative Arts.

County governments of Busia and Mandera: County governments in Kenya are legally obligated to involve communities in local governance. This responsibility is outlined in both the Constitution and the County Governments Act of 2012. Key obligations include: empowering communities; facilitating participation; promoting transparency; seeking public input; and establishing dialogue.

The ICT Authority (ICTA) is a State Corporation under the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology. Their broad mandate entails enforcing ICT standards in Government and enhancing the supervision of its electronic communication. They also promote ICT literacy, capacity, innovation and enterprise.

The National Council for Persons with Disabilities is a state corporation. The Council representation is drawn from key government Ministries and organizations of/for persons with disabilities. The Council exists to promote and protect equalization of opportunities and realization of human rights for PWDs to live decent livelihoods.
The Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB) is a government-recognized charity established in 1956. Its primary goal is to improve the lives of people with blindness through welfare and education, training and employment, promoting eye health and early detection of eye diseases, and educating the public about blindness and its challenges. KSB is legally obligated to offer rehabilitation services to individuals in Kenya who have irreversible vision los
Kenya Agricultural Livestock and Research Organization: The mandate of KALRO as stated in the Act includes to regulate in Kenya research in crops, livestock, genetic resources, and biotechnology; research in crops and animal diseases; expedite equitable access to research information, resources, and technology and promote the application of the research findings and technology in the field of agriculture.

3.2 Non-State Partners

Technology For Growth (TECH4G) is a Non-governmental organization that is registered in Kenya. It was formed by Information Communication and Technology (ICT) experts who have been working within the digital technology industry for over 25 years. On this project Tech4Growth is working in collaboration with the Association of Community Networks of Kenya and Internet Service Providers of Kenya (ISPAK).
African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is a pioneering development research think tank on harnessing applications of science, technology and innovation policies for sustainable development in Africa. ACTS is an Intergovernmental organization founded in 1988 to pursue policy-oriented research towards strengthening the capacity of African countries and institutions to harness science and technology for sustainable development.
Generation for Change and Development (GENCAD) will implement household economic inclusion programming in Mandera County. GENCAD is a Kenyan NGO and local organization in Mandera County that is focused on the social and economic empowerment of pastoralist communities. GENCAD’s programmes include primary and secondary school education, business and entrepreneurship training for women and youth, and humanitarian relief for households impacted by drought and food insecurity.
African Centre for Women, Information and Communications Technology (ACWICT) is a pioneering ICT4D organization empowering women and girls from marginalized and underserved communities to thrive in the digital economy. Its mission is to promote women and youth access to and knowledge of ICTs as tools for sustainable development.
EldoHub is an education and technology company empowering young people and women aged 18-35. It helps equip them with the digital tools and knowledge to thrive in the digital economy and bridge the skills gap in Africa’s job market by providing training in digital skills, preparing individuals for employment opportunities like jobs, internships, and apprenticeships.
Sote Hub is a leading Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) and a strong voice in the Blue Economy sector in Kenya and East Africa. Based at the Kenyan Coast in Mombasa, its mission is to grow a viable pipeline of ocean and inland water startups into industry leaders.
UK-Kenya Tech Hub forms part of the International Tech Hub network delivered by DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport), under a UK government initiative designed to promote digital inclusion and inclusive growth of the digital ecosystems in partner countries.
Plusfarm is a leading agribusiness consulting firm in Kenya and East Africa. Its focus is on efficient project management, combining cutting-edge agricultural technology with a deep understanding of their clients’ needs. They empower farmers to maximize their potential by providing innovative, tailored solutions that revolutionize the agricultural landscape in Kenya.

Frequently Asked Questions

4. Roles and Training for Community Digital Champions (CDC)

4.1 Who is a Community Digital Champion?

The Community Digital Champion will play a key role in delivering foundational digital literacy skills to residents of Busia County. Using the ICT Authority’s (ICTA) Basic Digital Skills curriculum, the Community Digital Champion will help individuals acquire essential digital skills through face-to-face and one-on-one training sessions. The position requires a committed individual with strong digital literacy skills, a passion for community service, and the ability to engage with local populations in their dialects.

4.2 Key Responsibilities of a Community Digital Champion(CDC)

4.2a Training Delivery: Provide digital literacy training to at least 100 people in Busia County, adapting teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs.
4.2b Training Preparation: Attend sessions with a Master Trainer, and ensure readiness with devices and stable internet for virtual preparation.
4.2c Community Engagement: Engage with communities using English, Kiswahili, and local dialects, targeting individuals who would benefit most from digital literacy.
4.2d Progress Tracking and Reporting: Monitor trainee progress, collect feedback, and submit reports on training outcomes.
4.2e Technology Utilization: Utilize digital devices effectively during training and adapt content for virtual and in-person sessions.

4.3 Courses Offered to Community Digital Champions

There are 12 courses which are basic/ foundational and they include:

Digital Devices in a Digital Workspace.
Skills in Basic Productivity Tools.
Communication and Collaboration.
Accessing Government Services & Youth Opportunities.
Basic Video Production and Editing.
Learning Online.
Basic Online Work Skills.
Online Business & Digital Entrepreneurship.
Cyber Hygiene for Workers.
Basic E-Waste Management.
Soft, Life, and Leadership Skills.
Health (Mental Health) and Nutrition Skills.

5. Training and Certification

5.1 Is certification mandatory?
A: No, the certificate is optional. It is only for those who wish to undertake the assessment and get a certificate from the ICT Authority’s (ICTA) at a cost of KES 500 and NOT by KICTANet. More information available at:SmartAcademy.go.ke

5.2 Why is there a fee for certification?

The basic digital skills training is free for all participants who are selected and administered by KICTANet through its eLearning Portal – https://elearning.kictanet.org.

The cost of Training has been subsidised at KES 2,500. However, if a participant needs to be certified by the government, then they will need to pay KES 500 to ICTA for the certification.

5.3 What is the value of certification if I already have skills?
The people who are being engaged as Community Digital Champions need to have a common understanding of the content being delivered under the project. This is to ensure that content and awareness that is being offered at the community level is standardized and in line with the Government of Kenya ICT curriculum. This is different from what people are certified for. The knowledge gained is not lost. One can drop off.

5.4 How is the assessment process conducted?

For the Assessment, one needs to register on www.smartacademy.go.ke then await the code via their email. This is done immediately once one completes the training. The code is valid for 2 weeks. The KES 500 payment is done before the assessment. If the code expires before you take the assessment, use the KICTANet help desk at [email protected] for reactivation.

6. E-Learning Portal and Technical Support

6.1 How do I log into the KICTANet eLearning Portal?

Visit elearning.kictanet.org and log in using the credentials provided. Follow the onboarding email for further instructions.

6.2 Where do I log in for my courses?

To access the e-learning portal take the following steps

Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to https://elearning.kictanet.org/

Step 2: On the top right corner click on the “Login” link

Step 3: Enter your username and password.

Step 4: Click on the “Login” button.

Tip: Ensure your credentials are correct. Contact support if you face issues.

Once logged in, the system will require you to change your password. For additional information please see the E-learning Portal User Guide is available here.

6.3 Why am I unable to log into my account to access the course content?

All students are contacted and sent an e-learning guide when they are being onboarded to the course. Refer to the email you used to register for the course for the e-learning guide. If you still have challenges, contact the helpdesk [email protected] or through your Cohort WhatsApp group.

6.4 Is the meeting online or physical? Which platform is used for the training?

All training sessions will be done online on the KICTANet e-learning Portal (elearning.kictanet.org) and the classes will be on Moodle and Zoom. Participants are encouraged to download the Moodle and Zoom mobile or desktop applications, which are available on Android, Apple Mac OS/iOS, and Windows in their respective application stores. You can also access it through a web browser of your choice at elearning.kictanet.org.

I can’t access my account or courses are missing.

If you encounter issues, contact the helpdesk at [email protected] or use your Cohort WhatsApp group for support. KICTANet WhatsApp: +254 738 837738.

Contact ICTA: Email: [email protected] ,Phone: +254710 521418 or +254721553464.

7. Internet Bundle Support and Facilitation

7.1 Are we provided with internet bundles for training?

Yes, each participant will receive a one-off KES 500 bundle to facilitate the online training. Bundles will only be given to students who attend the classes.

7.2 What if the provided bundles aren’t enough?
Participants are encouraged to utilize the weekly and daily bundles provided by Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom for optimal data usage. (KICTANet is offering the training while ICTA does the certification.)

*Network*	*Daily Bundle (KES 100)*	*Weekly Bundle (KES 500)*
Airtel	2 GB + Free WhatsApp	6.5 GB + Free WhatsApp
Safaricom	500MB + 500 SMS + WhatsApp	3 GB + WhatsApp
Telkom	2GB data + 2GB Night bundle + Free WhatsApp + 60 Telkom Mins	5 GB + Free WhatsApp

7.3 Why are data bundles provided but certification isn’t free?

Internet bundles are provided to ensure access for all participants during training. Certification is administered by ICT Authority’s (ICTA) , which charges a fee for this service.

7.4 When are we getting airtime?
Participants will be sent a one-off KES500 airtime to cater for bundles to participate in the online training over the next 4 days for the students. Please note that this will be for participants who will be available and ready to undertake the course.

7.5 Will the airtime be sent as M-PESA?
The connection facilitation will be sent as internet data bundles, based on the contact mobile number you used to apply and register for the course across all networks.

8. Post-Training Steps and Employment

8.1 What happens after the 4-day training?
After completing the course, the local organisation in the subcounty (partners in this project) will contact successful participants within two weeks. To be considered successful, participants must attend all 12 classes and complete all the surveys sent to them. The partners will ultimately choose which participants they want to work with.

8.2 Is there a salary for CDCs?

Compensation and onboarding information will be shared with those selected for CDC roles in their respective counties.

8.3 Are we under contract for the CDC position?

Details regarding contract duration and specific terms will be provided to those selected for CDC roles.

9. Additional Information

9.1 How do I resolve system issues during onboarding?
Follow the onboarding guide provided. If technical issues persist, raise your concerns through the helpdesk or Cohort WhatsApp group.

9.2 How long is each class session?
The schedule, including class duration and timing, will be provided upon login to the eLearning portal. In a single class we have session for 5 different cohorts i.e Cohort 1, Cohort 2, Cohort 3, Cohort 4 & Cohort 5. The student should be advised to click on the Live Session Link for the Cohort he/she belongs to.

9.3 How will I know my class schedule?
Class schedules will be posted on the KICTANet eLearning portal under your assigned cohort.

9.4 Is this training a scam?
No, this is a verified training initiative supported by KICTANet, UK Digital Access Programme, and Kenya’s Ministry of Information Communication and Digital Economy.

9.5 Code of Conduct for Meetings and Events

KICTANet is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all participants, including attendees, whether physical or virtual. This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for participant behaviour as well as the consequences for unacceptable behaviour. It applies to all KICTANet events, including any other gatherings organised, hosted, or sponsored by KICTANet. KICTANet supports a culture of reciprocal respect and does not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form.

For any additional questions or clarification, please contact the KICTANet help desk at [email protected].