A new report has revealed the positive impact of the Huawei DigiTruck program on digital skills training, income generation, and employment opportunities in Kenya.
The independent evaluation report was launched by the Kenyan government and Huawei Kenya at the Connected Africa Summit 2024.
Launched in 2019 under Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative, the DigiTruck is a unique mobile, solar-powered classroom.
Equipped with internet connectivity, laptops, and smartphones, this converted shipping container travels to remote areas of Kenya.
The program provides free digital skills training to young people, empowering them to participate more actively in the digital economy.
Key Findings of the Report
Over 4,000 Youths Trained: The report surveyed 800 participants from the program’s 4,000+ trainees over the past four years.
Enhanced Work Capabilities: A significant 93% of respondents reported improved work capabilities after the training.
Knowledge Sharing: 79% of participants stated they shared their newly acquired digital skills with others in their communities, fostering a culture of digital literacy.
Employment and Income Growth: The report highlights a 6% decline in the unemployment rate among respondents. Additionally, 35% attributed an increase in income to starting businesses with their newfound digital skills.
The DigiTruck program is a prime example of successful collaboration between the Kenyan government, led by Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo, Ministry of Information, Communication & The Digital Economy, and Huawei Kenya.
“This DigiTruck program comes in handy because through this program we are able to reach very remote areas that ordinarily we would not access for purposes of digital skilling,” said Mr Owalo. “We want to thank Huawei for this innovative digital skilling program and we want to assure you that we will continue working with you.”
President William Ruto praised the program’s impact at the Connected Africa Summit.
“This is the impact of a simple intervention in terms of empowering the youth, and it affirms the promise of our collaborative approach and the power of partnerships in achieving ambitious goals,” he stated.
As Kenya embraces the digital age, digital skills are no longer a luxury but a necessity.
The DigiTruck initiative is at the forefront of equipping Kenyan youth with these essential skills, paving the way for a more prosperous future.