Their journeys are proof: When the power of technology meets the limitless potential of young women, it feels as if there is no problem they cannot solve. That’s why – for Komukyeya, Akongo, and all aspiring entrepreneurs – it is critical that we close the digital gender divide.

Throughout the male-dominated tech sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), deeply entrenched stereotypes and bias keep women from entering or staying in ICT careers. Worse still, between 16 and 58 per cent of women have reported facing digital abuse, including sexual harassment, explicit deepfakes, and online stalking.

UN Women is working towards a world in which all women and girls feel safe and free from violence, online and off. Students in the AGCCI programme earn more than a certificate for their résumés. Their new tech skills boost their confidence – and their sense of online safety.

How the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) is closing the digital gender divide

For years, Komukyeya had tried to teach herself how to code but found her learning opportunities were too brief, irregular, or expensive. “But you can participate in AGGCI for free”, emphasized Komukyeya, with relief.

“I met really great people”, she reflected. “They knew so much that I yearned to know! And during those interactions, my eyes were opened: Coding is simple if you give it time and if you are really passionate about it. You need to be purposeful with it.”

Since 2018, UN Women has implemented AGCCI in partnership with the African Union Commission and the International Telecommunication Union. The programme equips young women with skills like coding, digital literacy, problem-solving, and leadership. AGCCI has hosted coding camps for women and girls ages 17 to 25 across Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.

In the 10-day camp, students learn UI/UX design (how a website looks and feels), web production, graphic design, and even robotics. “I learned how to design directly from scratch: games, apps, websites”, said Akongo.