Men in Kenya spend more time online than women – survey
Men in Kenya are more likely to be online than women, a new national survey has revealed, exposing a persistent gender gap in digital access despite near-universal mobile phone ownership.
The 2023/24 Kenya Housing Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) shows that 37.8 per cent of men use the internet compared to 32.2 per cent of women.
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“While the gap may appear narrow, it reflects persistent inequalities in access, opportunity, and digital inclusion, particularly in rural areas,” the study observes.
Nationally, only 35 per cent of individuals are online, but men account for a larger share at 37.8 per cent, compared to 32.2 per cent for women.
The survey shows that mobile phone ownership is almost universal, with 93.8 per cent of households having at least one device.
However, men are slightly more likely to use mobile phones 54.5 per cent than women 52.9 per cent.
“Given that mobile devices are the primary gateway to internet access in Kenya, even a small gap in ownership and use can have a significant effect on connectivity levels,” it notes.
Why men?
The report says economic activity also plays a role in the divide. Men are more likely to work in jobs or businesses that require regular internet use, from e-commerce to online banking and information services.
“This not only increases their need for connectivity but also improves their ability to afford mobile data. In contrast, women in some regions face additional cultural and social barriers that restrict their autonomy in accessing devices or online platforms,” the report says.
While the gender gap is clear, age remains another strong factor shaping online access. Internet use peaks among those aged 25–34 at 59.3 per cent, and among 15–24-year-olds at 46.6 per cent.
“Usage drops sharply among older adults, with just 4.4 per cent of those over 85 connected, underscoring the role of digital literacy and generational exposure to technology.”
The findings underline the need for targeted policies to close the gender gap in digital access. Without deliberate action, women, especially in rural areas, risk being left behind in Kenya’s growing digital economy.
