The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has called for inclusive digital policies to accelerate women’s empowerment and strengthen their role in the country’s digital transformation.

In a statement issued on March 8, 2026 to mark International Women’s Day, the authority noted that women across the country are increasingly using information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve livelihoods and access opportunities.

The regulator said women are using digital platforms to grow businesses, reach wider markets, pursue education, access healthcare information and participate in governance and civic life.

Role of women in digital transformation

The authority said increased participation of women in digital spaces is important for social and economic development. Officials noted that improved access to digital services allows women to access information, connect with markets and contribute to economic activities.

The Communications Authority said it will continue working with stakeholders to strengthen digital inclusion as Kenya advances its digital agenda.

“On this International Women’s Day 2026, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) celebrates the innovation, resilience and leadership of Kenyan women in our digital life. Across the country, women are leveraging ICTs to grow businesses, access markets, pursue education, manage households, access healthcare information and participate in governance and civic life.”

The statement was issued as the country joined the rest of the world in marking International Women’s Day 2026.

Data highlights digital access gap

According to data from the Communications Authority and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) 2024 report, access to telecommunications services between men and women is nearing parity in some areas.

Mobile phone ownership stands at 52.9 percent among women compared to 54.5 percent among men nationally. Among youth aged between 18 and 34 years, the gap is narrower, with 80.7 per cent of young women owning mobile phones compared to 82.4 percent of young men.

Internet usage among youth stands at 58 percent for women and 62.3 percent for men. However, disparities remain in internet and computer use across the wider population.

Nationally, 32.2 percent of women use the internet compared to 37.7 percent of men, while computer usage stands at 10.1 percent for women and 13.1 percent for men.

Push for inclusive digital ecosystem

The Communications Authority said it is implementing programmes aimed at expanding digital access and participation among women. Among the initiatives outlined are the expansion of connectivity to underserved and marginalised areas through universal access programmes.

The authority also noted ongoing efforts to strengthen consumer protection by enhancing awareness, improving complaint resolution mechanisms and promoting safer digital spaces.

In addition, the regulator is working to support innovation and create an accessible communications ecosystem that enables women-led enterprises to grow and participate in the digital economy.