Nelly Cheboi Redefines Education in Rural Kenya With TechLit Africa

Nelly Cheboi’s journey is one of vision and dedication, rooted in her desire to change the trajectory of rural communities in Africa. As the founder and CEO of TechLit Africa, she has used her experience and education to create opportunities for children in Kenya, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. TechLit Africa’s mission isn’t simply about introducing technology into classrooms—it’s about bridging the gap between untapped talent in underserved areas and the global digital economy.

Cheboi’s early life in Mogotio, Kenya, was shaped by the challenges of poverty. She was acutely aware of the barriers that limited her community’s access to education and opportunity. Growing up, she saw firsthand how lack of resources stifled potential. Despite these challenges, she managed to secure a scholarship to study in the United States, where she pursued a degree in computer science. Her experiences as a student abroad opened her eyes to the immense possibilities technology could offer, and the stark contrast between what was available in her home country and the developed world.

During her time in the U.S., Cheboi began to think about how technology could serve as a lifeline for rural communities in Kenya. She recognized that access to digital tools and education could be a game changer, allowing children from underserved areas to acquire skills that could open doors to higher-paying jobs and break the cycle of poverty. It was this realization that sparked the idea for TechLit Africa, a nonprofit organization aimed at transforming education in rural Kenya by providing access to computers and digital literacy programs.

The concept behind TechLit Africa is straightforward: gather used computers from developed countries, refurbish them, and ship them to schools in Kenya. Once there, the computers are installed in classrooms, where students receive training in basic digital skills. But Cheboi’s vision extends beyond just providing access to technology. She understands that true empowerment comes from equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to harness the power of these tools. As such, the curriculum focuses on practical, hands-on learning, encouraging students to engage with technology in a way that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

One of the core tenets of TechLit Africa is sustainability. Cheboi is acutely aware of the pitfalls associated with simply donating equipment without a long-term plan for maintenance and education. TechLit Africa works closely with local teachers, providing training to ensure they can effectively integrate technology into their classrooms. This approach ensures that the program remains sustainable and continues to benefit future generations of students. By involving the local community, Cheboi has created a model that fosters ownership and accountability, reducing the likelihood of equipment falling into disuse.

Cheboi’s leadership is driven by a deep understanding of the challenges her community faces, but also by an unwavering belief in the potential of the children she serves. She has seen the direct impact that access to technology can have on a child’s future. For many of the students in TechLit Africa’s programs, their first encounter with a computer is a transformative experience. Suddenly, the world opens up to them in ways they never thought possible. They are no longer confined by the limitations of their environment. Instead, they have access to a wealth of knowledge and opportunities that were previously out of reach.

TechLit Africa’s impact goes beyond just improving education outcomes. It is changing the narrative around what is possible for children in rural Kenya. Cheboi has created a pipeline that connects these children to the global economy, giving them the skills they need to compete in a digital world. By focusing on digital literacy, TechLit Africa is preparing students for careers in technology, a sector that offers immense potential for economic mobility. In doing so, Cheboi is not just addressing the symptoms of poverty; she is tackling its root causes, creating opportunities for upward mobility that have the power to transform entire communities.

Cheboi’s approach to leadership is deeply personal. She understands the struggles that many of the children in TechLit Africa’s programs face because she has lived through similar challenges. Her empathy and commitment to her community are evident in everything she does. She is not content to simply provide resources; she is committed to creating meaningful change. This is reflected in the way she runs TechLit Africa—with a focus on long-term impact and sustainable growth. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach, partnering with more schools and impacting thousands of students.

One of the reasons TechLit Africa has been so successful is Cheboi’s ability to bring together diverse stakeholders. She has built strong partnerships with individuals and organizations in the U.S. and Kenya, leveraging their expertise and resources to further TechLit Africa’s mission. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in scaling the organization’s impact. Cheboi understands that lasting change requires a collective effort, and she has been able to rally support from a wide range of partners, all of whom share her vision for a more equitable world.

Cheboi’s work has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades for her efforts, including recognition from global organizations and media outlets. But for Cheboi, the true measure of success is the impact TechLit Africa is having on the lives of the students it serves. Every child who learns to use a computer, every student who gains confidence in their abilities, is a testament to the power of education and the potential for change. For Cheboi, the rewards of her work are not found in awards or recognition, but in the knowledge that she is helping to create a better future for the next generation.

Looking forward, Cheboi remains focused on scaling TechLit Africa’s impact. She has ambitious plans to expand the program to more schools across Kenya and eventually into other African countries. Her vision is to create a continent-wide network of digitally literate students who are equipped to take advantage of the opportunities the global digital economy offers. She recognizes that the need is great, but she is undeterred. Cheboi’s determination and belief in her mission are evident in everything she does, and she continues to push forward with the same passion and energy that drove her to start TechLit Africa in the first place.

Nelly Cheboi’s story is one of transformation—not just for herself, but for the thousands of children whose lives have been touched by TechLit Africa. She has proven that with the right tools and the right mindset, it is possible to break free from the limitations of poverty and create a future filled with possibility. Through her work, Cheboi has redefined what is possible for children in rural Kenya, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.

In many ways, Cheboi’s journey is just beginning. TechLit Africa has already made a significant impact, but there is much more to be done. As she continues to expand the organization’s reach and refine its approach, Cheboi remains laser-focused on her ultimate goal—to create a world where every child, no matter where they are born, has access to the education and opportunities they need to succeed. It is a bold vision, but one that Cheboi is uniquely qualified to achieve. Her leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her community have already accomplished what many thought impossible. And with TechLit Africa, she is just getting started.

Nelly Cheboi, Founder & CEO, TechLit Africa

One of the reasons TechLit Africa has been so successful is Cheboi’s ability to bring together diverse stakeholders. She has built strong partnerships with individuals and organizations in the U.S. and Kenya, leveraging their expertise and resources to further TechLit Africa’s mission. 

During her time in the U.S., Cheboi began to think about how technology could serve as a lifeline for rural communities in Kenya. She recognized that access to digital tools and education could be a game changer, allowing children from underserved areas to acquire skills that could open doors to higher-paying jobs and break the cycle of poverty.