AGCCI Coding Camps Empower a New Generation of Girls in Digital Skills

The third phase of the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) has successfully concluded in Gitega, Shombo commune, this March 27th, 2026, marking another significant milestone in advancing digital inclusion and empowering young girls in Burundi. Hosted at the Cefore RUSI in Shombo commune, the coding camp brought together young girls from across the country for an intensive training focused on programming, digital innovation, and problem-solving skills.

Building skills, confidence, and ambition

Over the course of the camp, participants acquired practical coding skills and developed innovative projects addressing real community challenges. From applications to digital prototypes, the final presentations demonstrated not only technical capacity but also creativity and critical thinking.

“Before this camp, I had never imagined I could build an application. Today, I know I can create solutions for my community,” shared one participant.

Beyond technical knowledge, the initiative also strengthened participants’ confidence, leadership abilities, and teamwork—essential skills for thriving in the digital economy.

Strong commitments from government and partners

The closing ceremony featured high-level remarks reaffirming the importance of investing in girls’ digital skills as a pathway to inclusive development.

Representing the Minister of Finance, Budget and Digital Economy, the Director General of Digital Economy, Ms Odely Ndiho emphasized: “The Government of Burundi places digital transformation at the heart of its development agenda. Investing in girls’ digital skills is key to building an inclusive and sustainable economy.”

She encouraged participants to continue pursuing opportunities in technology and innovation. The UN Women Burundi Representative, Ms Clara Mah Anyangwe highlighted the transformative nature of the initiative: “AGCCI is more than a training program—it is a life-changing experience that opens doors and expands opportunities for girls in the digital space.” She reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to supporting women’s economic empowerment through digital inclusion.

The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Burundi underscored the importance of partnerships: “Belgium is proud to support initiatives like African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) that equip young girls with the skills needed for the future. Digital education is a powerful driver of gender equality and sustainable development.”

A strategic partnership for impact AGCCI is a joint initiative of the African Union, the International Telecommunication Union, and UN Women, with the support of the Kingdom of Belgium. The program aims to bridge the gender digital divide and promote girls’ participation in STEM fields across Africa.

The strong collaboration between government institutions, international organizations, and development partners highlights a shared commitment to investing in girls as drivers of innovation and growth.

As Burundi continues its journey toward digital transformation, initiatives like African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) play a critical role in preparing a new generation of skilled, confident, and ambitious young women.

The camp may have come to an end, but for these girls, it marks the beginning of a promising journey—one where they are not just users of technology, but creators, innovators, and leaders. The successful completion of AGCCI Phase III in Burundi sends a strong message: empowering girls with digital skills is not only a matter of equality—it is a strategic investment in the future of societies and economies.