WISE Participates in ICT4D Conference 2026 in Nairobi

Women’s Media Initiative for Sustainable Environment (WISE) participated in the ICT4D Conference 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, with support from NetHope Connected. The conference, held from May 20 to 22, 2026, brought together global leaders, development practitioners, innovators, nonprofit networks, researchers, and technology partners to explore how digital transformation can strengthen humanitarian relief, development, and locally led impact.

WISE’s work is rooted in media, storytelling, advocacy, and movement building. Participation in ICT4D 2026 helped deepen the organization’s understanding of how digital tools, when used responsibly and inclusively, can strengthen women’s participation in decision-making spaces and expand the visibility of grassroots voices.

One of the key sessions attended by WISE focused on how nonprofit networks are using technology to amplify the voices and strengthen the capacity of national and sub-national organizations, especially at a time when funding is shrinking and community needs are growing. The discussion also featured Dianna Langley, NetHope’s Chief Operating Officer, who shared insights on the role of networks in advancing locally led impact through digital transformation.

The discussion strongly reflected WISE’s own priorities. Across Uganda, many grassroots women and girls remain excluded from public conversations on land, climate change, extractive industries, natural resources, and environmental justice. Digital platforms can help bridge this gap by supporting local organizations to document community realities, share women’s stories, counter misinformation, and bring marginalized voices into wider policy and development spaces.

Reflecting on the discussions, Precious Naturinda, Executive Director of WISE, said, “from the different discussions, it became clear that many grassroots women are still held back by limited digital literacy skills, concerns around safety, and a lack of confidence in digital spaces. This is why WISE is committed to building the confidence and capacity of grassroots women and girls to tell their own stories, strengthen their collective voice, and drive change through media.”

WISE’s participation in ICT4D 2026 has strengthened its commitment to integrating digital learning, media innovation, and safe technology use into its work.

With the support and learning gained through NetHope Connected, WISE will continue exploring practical ways to build the digital capacity of grassroots women and girls, strengthen community reporting, support responsible storytelling, and use digital tools to expand women’s visibility in environmental and development spaces.