Kennedy Odedra

Founded Moringa School to empower African youth with tech education

Kennedy Odedra is a visionary entrepreneur from Kenya who co-founded Moringa School in 2013. This institution has become a cornerstone in bridging Africa's digital skills gap by offering intensive coding bootcamps and data science programs. Over 2,000 graduates have entered tech industries across Africa, with 90% securing employment within six months of graduation. Moringa's innovative 'pay-it-forward' model allows alumni to mentor newcomers, creating a sustainable ecosystem. Beyond education, Odedra advocates for pan-African tech collaboration through platforms like the Tech for Africa initiative, which connects startups with global investors. His work has been featured in Forbes Africa and Devex, highlighting his role in positioning Nairobi as a tech hub. Partnerships with organizations like Google and UNDP underscore his impact on scaling tech literacy.

Odreda’s vision extends to gender equity: 40% of Moringa’s students are women, challenging traditional barriers. His TED Talk "Why Africa's Tech Future Is Brighter Than You Think" has over 500,000 views. Critics argue tech education alone won’t solve systemic issues, but Odedra counters that skills are foundational for broader economic shifts. His recent venture, Moringa Accelerator, provides seed funding and mentorship to startups addressing issues like healthcare and agriculture, proving tech can be a catalyst for social good.