Safaricom has joined forces with Teki, a technology brand that focuses on building and delivering transformative digital solutions to the marketto launch “Spark,” a mentoring program aimed at empowering 10,000+ girls in 2025 with skills for digital careers and entrepreneurship.
The program, unveiled at the launch in Nairobi, is a key component of the Tech Women Festival, scheduled for March, which will celebrate leading female digital practitioners, innovators, and industry leaders.
Teki Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Festival Director, Martin Muli, announced that the program will culminate in pairing the top 25 girls in digital with the top 25 women in digital for personalized support and mentorship.
The mentees will also participate in a ten-module online program covering leadership, entrepreneurship, career paths, and personal brand building.
“The mentoring programme is a key pillar of the Tech Women Festival which brings several players in the digital ecosystem to celebrate milestones and explore policy gaps in tech industry while connecting with peers. The festival to be held next month will also honour Top 25 women trailblazers in digital,” said Mr Muli.
Safaricom’s Fixed Data Manager, Diana Ogeto emphasized the importance of equipping girls with skills in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Cyber Security.
“The curriculum alone cannot enable female tech students to survive in the current work environment and we have partnered with the Teki and other like-minded corporates to foster an ecosystem where young women are not just consumers of technology but also creators, innovators, and leaders.”
This aligns with Safaricom’s existing outreach programs for tech students, designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry needs.
Microsoft Artificial Intelligence National Skills Director, Winnie Karanu, called on public and corporate institutions to adapt to technological advancements by implementing flexible working hours for Gen Z and young women.
She also encouraged the girls, stating, “For young girls, you need to know your craft, master it well then, focus and always step out of your comfort zones to be able to meet new challenges which come with opportunities for growth.”
