Though cyber-security is one of the fastest growing sectors and has become a major concern for both Kenyans and organizations alike, the number of female cybersecurity experts in the country remains low.

Reports indicate that women held only about 25 percent of cybersecurity jobs worldwide as of 2022, and this year they are projected to make up about 30 percent of these roles.

The underrepresentation of women in this crucial field means less available talent to help keep up with mounting cyber threats, and it has been attributed to lack of role models, societal stereotypes, and lack of mentorship among others.

Women should work in cybersecurity as their involvement is not just beneficial but necessary in, among other things, ensuring a well-rounded approach to identifying digital threats and finding solutions.

Experts say it is about leveraging women’s distinctive skills, perspectives and values to enhance the field.

Women bring unique perspectives that can be essential to developing innovative cybersecurity strategies and their increased involvement can go a long way in closing the skills gap while enhancing the quality of cybersecurity talent.

Also, their approaches to problem-solving can also lead to more creative and effective solutions vital to combating ever-evolving cyber threats.

Equally, the inclusion of women in cybersecurity fosters innovation and diversity. Diverse teams are more likely to consider a wider range of approaches and come up with more groundbreaking solutions.

Their involvement is also justified by the fact that women possess many of the soft skills needed in the cybersecurity industry like active listening, attention to detail, collaboration and critical thinking.

A career in cyber-security offers women not just a job but is also a path to economic empowerment.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kasait’s push for concerted efforts in the realisation of having a 50/50 share of women and men in the cyber-security entrepreneurship is commendable.

A number of measures have been put in place towards onboarding more women in the profession including the Acyberschool which has developed programs such as Bug Bounty aimed at equipping more women with cybersecurity technical skills.

Through the continued support from the Africa Cybersecurity and AI Foundation, Acyberschool is innovating in the space to create opportunities in the digital economy in emerging technology, including AI, through the TrendAI app platform that connects creators to SMEs in tech to amplify their businesses.