The Women In Tech Kenya Chapter has been Officially Launched in Nairobi, with Absa as a Key Partner

Imagine a world where women have equal opportunities in the tech industry. This vision became a little more real recently when the Women In Tech Kenya Chapter was officially launched in Nairobi. The event, known as the Women In Tech Kenya launch with Absa, was part of the 2025 Women in Tech Summit and marked a significant step toward achieving gender equality in technology.

The summit took place shortly after International Women’s Day and brought together industry leaders, government officials, and advocates for gender equality. It was a celebration of women’s achievements in technology and a call to action to break down barriers that prevent women from succeeding in the field. The launch of Women In Tech Kenya was a highlight of the event, symbolizing a commitment to creating opportunities for women and girls in technology across the country.

Melissa Slaymaker, Africa Director for Women in Tech, emphasized the importance of expanding the organization’s reach. She explained that each new chapter allows them to support more women and girls with skills, mentorship, and opportunities in technology. She also highlighted the role of partnerships like the one with Absa Bank in accelerating progress toward their goal of empowering five million women and girls by 2030.

Absa Bank has been a key partner in this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Julius Kamau, Chief Operations and Data Officer at Absa Kenya, stated that diversity is not just a goal but a business imperative. He noted that platforms like the Women in Tech Summit provide vital spaces for women to connect, share experiences, and inspire future generations.

The Women In Tech Kenya launch with Absa represents more than just an event; it is a call to action. Discussions at the summit focused on critical topics such as advancing women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), promoting financial inclusion through technology, and fostering sustainability. Speakers emphasized the need for mentorship programs, leadership advocacy, and structural changes like equal pay policies to ensure lasting progress.

Punki Modise, Group Sustainability Officer at Absa Group, highlighted how technology can drive financial inclusion and sustainability. Similarly, Muhammad Ali Bhikhan of Absa Regional Operations stressed the importance of collaboration in empowering women by making growth opportunities more visible and accessible.

The urgency of these efforts is underscored by statistics from the World Economic Forum indicating that full gender parity may not be achieved until 2158 if current trends continue. The summit’s theme, #AccelerateAction, served as a reminder that tangible change requires collective responsibility from individuals, organizations, and governments alike.

As the Women In Tech Kenya Chapter begins its journey, it aims to inspire change within Kenya’s vibrant tech landscape often referred to as “Silicon Savannah.” By providing mentorship, education opportunities, and advocating for systemic changes, this initiative seeks to empower Kenyan women to thrive in technology roles traditionally dominated by men.

The Women In Tech Kenya launch with Absa is not just about addressing gender gaps; it is about unlocking innovation and driving economic growth through inclusivity. With continued collaboration between stakeholders like Absa Bank and Women in Tech, there is hope for a brighter future where Kenyan women lead boldly in shaping the tech industry. Ultimately, this initiative reminds us that progress is possible, but only if we commit to accelerating action together.

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