Capacity building serves as a crucial pathway for communities striving to create autonomous and sustainable solutions that address the digital divide. By empowering individuals to customize technological tools to their unique needs, this approach enhances accessibility, relevance, and resilience within these communities.
In February 2026, the inaugural edition of a blended training program for ICT network managers in indigenous and rural communities took place in Africa. This initiative, spearheaded by Rhizomatica and supported by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), draws inspiration from experiences in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) developed since 2019.
Progress in Digital Inclusion Across Africa
The blended training was specifically designed to cultivate capacity in the regions where connectivity is most urgently required. An advisory committee was formed to share insights from this experience within Africa. The program prioritizes community-driven ICT development, focusing on sustainability, locally-centered connectivity, and ownership. Ultimately, it seeks to position indigenous and rural communities at the forefront of digital transformation, enabling them to take charge of technology tailored to their specific needs.
Launched in 2025, this program features a 19-week online learning phase followed by an intensive bootcamp held in Nairobi, Kenya, in early 2026. Participants who completed the online portion gathered for an immersive learning experience that integrated hands-on activities with collaborative learning. This interactive phase emphasized the co-development of connectivity initiatives aligned with community priorities, creating a collaborative environment conducive to networking across the region’s 18 countries. Experienced practitioners and experts from various regions contributed their knowledge, enriching the learning experience with diverse insights.
The training bootcamps, a staple in the LAC region and now making their debut in Africa, are cultivating a strong tradition of uniting various stakeholders dedicated to community-focused connections. These gatherings provide a collaborative space for partners to converge around shared objectives. Beyond the training itself, the program aims to fortify a burgeoning regional network of community technology advocates, fostering ongoing collaboration and propelling connectivity initiatives that prioritize community needs throughout Africa.
Explore the key moments from the 2026 bootcamp through our photo journey.
The success of the blended training for ICT network managers in indigenous and rural communities across Africa was made possible by the dedication of Rhizomatica and the support from the Local Access Program, led by the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), the Internet Society of Communities (ISOC), the World Association for Christian Communication (WACC), and 48percent.org. Local partnerships were established with the African Advanced Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI) and Thanda Community Network, further solidifying the initiative’s impact.
