Women in Tech Uganda: Communities and Support Networks

Code Queens is one of the most visible and active women-in-tech communities in Uganda. Here is what they offer and how to get involved:

What they do: Code Queens runs coding workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events specifically for women. Their workshops cover practical skills: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and web development. Events range from beginner introductions to more advanced technical sessions.

Who it is for: Women at all stages, from complete beginners who have never written a line of code to working professionals looking to upskill. You do not need any technical background to attend.

How to join: Follow Code Queens Uganda on social media (Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Instagram) for event announcements. Most events are in Kampala, often hosted at Innovation Village or similar tech spaces. Some events are virtual. There is no formal membership process for most events; you simply register and show up.

Why it matters: The value of Code Queens is not just the technical training. It is meeting other women who are learning, who have faced the same doubts, and who can share advice specific to being a woman in Ugandan tech. The mentorship connections formed through Code Queens have directly led to internships and job placements.

WITU takes a broader approach than pure coding training. They focus on the entire ecosystem of women in technology, from skills to policy to representation.

What they do: WITU organizes skills training programs (often funded by international partners, making them free), career mentorship, networking events, and advocacy campaigns for women in the Ugandan tech sector. They also connect members with employment opportunities and internships.

Programs and training: WITU's training programs are often structured cohorts that run for several weeks or months. Past programs have covered web development, data analytics, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. Because these are often partner-funded, they are free or heavily subsidized for participants.

How to get involved: Check the WITU website and social media for upcoming programs and events. Application processes vary by program, but most require a simple application form explaining your background and goals. WITU is active in Kampala but has members across Uganda.

The network effect: WITU alumni are working across the Ugandan tech industry, at MTN Uganda, at startups, at banks, and at international organizations. Joining WITU connects you to this alumni network, which is valuable when you start looking for jobs. Hiring managers who know and trust WITU are more likely to give WITU members a chance.

She Code Africa (Uganda chapter). A pan-African community for women in tech. They run mentorship programs where experienced developers are paired with beginners for structured mentorship over several months. They also host technical workshops and contribute to open source projects. The Uganda chapter is growing and worth joining for the broader continental network.

Women Techmakers (Google). Part of Google's global program for women in tech. In Uganda, Women Techmakers events are typically organized through GDG Kampala. Events include technical talks, workshops, and networking. Google often provides resources and swag for attendees. Watch the GDG Kampala channels for Women Techmakers-specific events.

Django Girls Kampala. Organizes free one-day programming workshops for women using Python and Django. These workshops are intensive introductions, not full courses, but they give you a taste of programming and connect you with mentors. Django Girls events happen periodically, not on a fixed schedule.

AkiraChix (East African network). Based in Nairobi but with connections across East Africa. They offer training programs and have alumni in Uganda. Worth exploring if you want to connect with women in tech across the region, not just within Uganda.

University groups. Makerere University and other Ugandan universities have women-in-tech clubs and associations. If you are a current student, check what is available at your institution. These groups often connect to the larger Kampala tech community.

Not every useful community is women-only. These general tech spaces in Kampala are welcoming environments where women can learn, work, and network:

Innovation Village. Kampala's largest innovation hub. Hosts tech events, meetups, and workshops regularly. Many women-in-tech events are held here. The space itself is a good place to work, meet other developers, and stay connected to the Kampala tech scene.

Outbox. A co-working and incubation space focused on early-stage tech talent and startups. Outbox runs training programs and events, some of which are specifically for women. Their community is supportive of newcomers.

Hive Colab. One of the oldest tech hubs in Kampala, operating since 2010. Hive Colab has a deep network in the Ugandan tech ecosystem. They provide workspace, host events, and connect members with opportunities. The community culture is collaborative and welcoming.

Online communities. If you are outside Kampala, online is your lifeline. Join the Telegram and WhatsApp groups run by Code Queens, WITU, and GDG Kampala. Follow Ugandan women in tech on Twitter/X and LinkedIn. The conversations, resource sharing, and job postings in these channels are valuable regardless of where you are physically located.

The key is showing up. Join one community, attend one event, and introduce yourself. That single step connects you to a network that makes everything else easier.