Microsoft has sponsored ICT and entrepreneurship training for 1,093 Kenyan women from six settlements under its Unlimited Potential program.

Will Poole, corporate vice president at Microsoft, presided over the graduation ceremony in Kibera, Nairobi. The training was offered in partnership with the African Center for Women, Information and Communication Technology (ACWICT).

The women, aged between 18 and 35, were offered training in ICT, entrepreneurship and life skills, said Constantine Obuya, ACWICT executive director. The participants were drawn from informal settlements in Kawangware, Kibera, Mukuru, Mathare, Korogocho and Kangemi, she said.

Microsoft's Unlimited Potential program aims to reach a billion people by 2015, by exploring solutions in areas that are crucial to developing sustained economic opportunity, Poole said.

The training was offered using Microsoft’s curriculum. The women were expected to identify ways in which technology could improve their businesses and offer new opportunities for economic growth.

“By transforming education, fostering local innovation enabling jobs and opportunities, the Unlimited Potential initiative helps all people to benefit from technology that is accessible, affordable and relevant to their needs,” said Poole.

With the training and business support, Obuya hopes to empower women, improve lives, create and sustain wealth and broaden digital inclusion in Kenya, as well as accelerate achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Microsoft Eastern and Southern Africa General Manager Louis Otieno expressed his commitment to enhancing accessibility, affordable ICT tools and digital inclusion within the 15 African countries he covers.

Recognizing the challenges faced by women in informal settlements, Poole said some men still find it difficult to accept that women have business acumen and the energy and commitment to develop a successful venture.

In its goal to reach the one billion mark by 2015, Microsoft is partnering with governments, industry partners, non governmental organizations and academia to empower underserved populations.

The IDG News Service is a Network World affiliate.