Bridging Africa's Tech Talent Gap: How Tech4Dev is Empowering the Future

Imagine a continent, brimming with untapped potential, where over 230 million jobs will require digital skills by 2030. Now, picture one organization that’s lighting the way forward—helping Africa’s youth, especially women and underserved communities, unlock the power of the digital world. That organization is Tech4Dev.

This isn't just about technology. This is about creating a ripple effect of transformation, empowering a generation to leap from opportunity to opportunity, and catalyzing change that echoes across the continent.

From Crisis to Opportunity: The Tech4Dev Journey

It all began in 2014, right after the Ebola crisis. Tech4Dev's founders, Oladiwura Oladepo and Joel Ogunsola, realized something profound: Africa's challenges could be met head-on with technology. And so, they set out on a journey—not just to help people through crises, but to build a lasting legacy of digital empowerment.

As Aaron Adetide Adeola, Tech4Dev’s Grants and Partnerships Business Manager, puts it:

We discovered there is a huge gap in tech talent in Africa. That's what gave birth to Tech4Dev—to bridge that gap across the continent.

Today, Tech4Dev stands tall with offices in Lagos, Nigeria, and the United States. From Ghana to Egypt, to Sudan and beyond, they are building a digital network that is transforming lives in over 30 countries.

The Women Techsters Initiative: Empowering Change, Empowering Women

One of Tech4Dev’s most powerful programs is the Women Techsters Initiative. Why? Because it’s not just training women in tech; it’s breaking down barriers, smashing stereotypes, and empowering the next generation of leaders. This program has already helped over 200,000 women—and its mission is far from finished.

The Women Techsters Initiative is the beacon of hope for thousands of young girls across Africa. It doesn’t just teach skills—it empowers futures. The program offers:

• Advocacy and Outreach: Spreading the message about technology’s potential, especially during International Women’s Month. Local beneficiaries are stepping up to lead campaigns that encourage young girls to embrace STEM learning and technology.
• Training Programs: Whether through the Fellowship (year-long, intensive training), the Bootcamp (short, focused courses), or the Masterclass (advanced skills sharpening), these programs meet people where they are—helping them gain the skills they need to succeed.

Tech4Dev’s ultimate goal? To train 5 million women across Africa by 2030. Yes, you read that right. This ambitious vision will forever change the tech landscape on the continent.

Real Impact: The Stories That Matter

The true power of Tech4Dev lies in the real stories of its graduates. Take Fatima Ahmed, for instance. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of Tech4Dev. These aren’t just statistics—these are lives changed, futures rewritten, and communities transformed.

Every success story is a testament to Tech4Dev’s commitment to reaching those who need it most, whether they’re in career transitions, overcoming barriers to education, or rising up from conflict-affected regions.

Looking Forward: A Future Filled with Possibility

As Tech4Dev prepares for its next Women Techsters cohort, the overwhelming response is a powerful reminder of Africa’s hunger for digital skills. This isn’t just a program; it’s a movement. Through global partnerships with organizations like B1G1, supporters everywhere can help power this transformative work.

Africa’s opportunity is now. With 60% of the population under 25, the continent has the chance to leapfrog development challenges through digital empowerment. Tech4Dev isn’t just building skills—it’s creating a prosperous, equitable future for Africa, one digital skill at a time.

Are you ready to be a part of this? You can make a difference today. Support Tech4Dev’s mission by contributing to their project, Empower Women with Digital Training and Tech Careers on the B1G1 platform.

Together, we’re not just teaching technology—we’re shaping the future of an entire continent. And when we do that, we all win.