In a recent report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), a significant digital divide between men and women in Kenya has been highlighted, shedding light on how technology access and usage varies across urban and rural areas. The Analytical Report on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), released jointly with the Communications Authority (CA), is based on data from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. It provides a detailed look at the daily internet usage patterns across different demographics, emphasizing the gender and urban-rural disparities.
The Digital Divide: Men Leading in Daily Internet Usage
According to the KNBS report, 63.5% of males in Kenya use the internet on a daily basis compared to 56.2% of females. This marked difference underlines a persistent gender gap in digital access, with men using the internet more frequently than women. In urban areas, the gender gap is even more pronounced: 77% of urban men are daily internet users, as opposed to 69.8% of urban women. In rural settings, the divide narrows but still exists, with 58% of rural men and 53.1% of rural women using the internet almost every day.
Urban vs. Rural: The Urban-Rural Divide in Internet Access
The report highlights a significant urban-rural divide in internet usage. In urban areas, internet penetration is notably higher, with 73.4% of residents accessing the internet almost every day, compared to just 55.6% of rural residents. This urban advantage is further illustrated by the fact that 28.5% of rural women use the internet at least once a week, compared to 20.1% of rural men. This discrepancy in access is not just about technology availability but also reflects deeper socio-economic factors, including differences in digital literacy, device ownership, and affordability.
The Age Factor: Youth Leading in Daily Internet Use
One of the most striking findings of the report is the correlation between age and internet usage. Males aged 25-34 are the most frequent users, with 73.9% using the internet almost every day. This demographic also includes the highest rate of female internet users at 65.4%. This age group is often the most engaged with digital platforms for work, education, and social interaction, emphasizing the role of technology in modern life for young Kenyans.
Regional Variations: Internet Use Across Counties
The report also provides a granular view of internet usage across different counties, revealing significant regional disparities. Nairobi City County has the highest proportion of daily internet users, with 89.7% of men and 76.4% of women accessing the internet regularly. Uasin Gishu, Mombasa, Kiambu, and Isiolo counties also show high usage rates among both men and women. Conversely, counties like Mandera, Tana River, and Turkana show the lowest usage rates, with male internet users significantly below the national average. This stark contrast underscores the challenges faced in rural and marginalized regions in terms of digital inclusion.
Implications for Policy and Future Development
The KNBS report not only highlights the existing gender and urban-rural digital divide but also points to the need for targeted policy interventions to bridge these gaps. The disparities in internet access and usage reflect broader socio-economic inequalities, where access to education, employment opportunities, and government services is increasingly mediated by digital technology. To ensure that the benefits of the digital age are accessible to all Kenyans, it is crucial for policymakers to implement strategies that enhance digital literacy, reduce costs associated with internet access, and expand infrastructure in underserved areas.
Furthermore, there is a need to promote digital skills development among women and rural populations. This includes not just access to devices and networks but also targeted training programs to empower individuals to use the internet effectively for communication, learning, and business. The private sector also has a role to play in driving affordability and accessibility, whether through providing subsidized devices, affordable data plans, or community centers with free internet access.
Conclusion
The KNBS report on ICT usage in Kenya serves as a wake-up call for addressing the gender and urban-rural digital divide. As the world becomes increasingly digital, it is essential that Kenya’s development agenda includes strategies to ensure equitable access to technology. By focusing on enhancing connectivity, promoting digital literacy, and addressing socio-economic barriers, Kenya can better harness the potential of the digital age for all its citizens. The data from this report provides a crucial foundation for informed policy decisions that will enable inclusive growth in the digital economy.
This report is not just a snapshot of current internet usage but a call to action for all stakeholders to work together in creating a more connected and equitable future for Kenya.
