Mobile Computer Camp Empowering Rural Communities in Kenya

Kids Comp Camp, a Kenyan tech initiative is promoting digital literacy among local underprivileged communities in Kenya.

The first community outreach was made in 2014. Ever since, Kids Comp Camp has not only promoted learning, but has also been recognized for their work in empowering communities.

The initiative has received prestigious awards such as the Microsoft’s UpgradeYourWorldKE, FIRE Africa awards, and Ashoka Youth Forward Awards among others.

The pilot project targeted kids in selected communities. The program has since diversified to accommodate adult members of the communities they work with.

According to Kids Comp Camp the idea was motivated by the need to “strengthen support system of kids we serve by also training the teacher, parent and older brothers/sisters to support them.” Additionally, the model will help generate revenue to “support the kids program which is offered at no cost. The focus remains on the kids, but now for adults that love them too.”

How it works

“We offer 8 weeks, 2 hours a day training at an affordable and flexible fee of 30 USD, (Kshs. 75 ($0.75) per day) per participant!” They target to work with at least 50 participants per a training period.

The initiative partners with local schools, churches and community centers to host the training. Hosting the project in local communities ensures that all interested candidates can access the training easily. Additionally, it encourages project ownership.

The project, dubbed ‘Kompyuta Mashinani’ (Swahili for computers to the grassroots) - apparently, Kids Comp Camp is a tongue twister for most local adults (Kids get it very fast, adults don’t) - has trained over 6,300 kids and the numbers keep increasing.

The accomplishments are not without challenges. They have had to deal with electricity shortages, and rough terrains to meet the participants. Additionally, they lack a car fit for rough terrains around villages.

But they are optimistic. “In all experiences we endeavor to keep learning more of how we can improve the impact of Kids Comp Camp in the communities we work with and beyond” the initiative writes in an article.