Kenya Esther Mbugua

The early days

Esther Mbugua grew up in a cosmopolitan environment in Kajiado County on the border of Kenya and Tanzania in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. “I mingled with diverse cultures where I was schooled before going to college in Nairobi, where I studied electronic engineering,” she shares. 

“I always had this urge to touch electronics in the house, engaging in minor repairs or adjustments. I was always fascinated on how connections work, hence I felt the need to pursue a tech related course.”  

After studying, Esther worked for a private telecommunication firm as an intern before being promoted to a full-time employee as a maintenance technician. She now lives and works in Nairobi. 

Where tech meets humanity

Esther currently works as an ICT Systems Integration Support Technician in the Voice Unit, where she is responsible for installing, operating, and maintaining Cisco Unified Communication Manager (CUCM) and related Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) infrastructure. She serves and resolves communication issues, which helps keep day-to-day humanitarian and peacekeeping operations going.  

Esther’s tasks include configuring various Cisco VoIP phones, managing Cisco Jabber and MicroSip mobility features, conducting server reachability and call route tests (both local and international), monitoring call security through PIN codes, performing new user installations and clearing system alarms. She also diagnoses and repairs faulty telephone extensions by inspecting hardware, cabling, and connectivity routes. 

On her role and its impact on the wider humanitarian effort, Esther says: “There is great satisfaction when people communicate seamlessly courtesy of your service.”   

When Esther is not bridging the gap between the tech and humanitarian worlds, she plays musical instruments, goes to gym, and attends church services.

Navigating the industry

“There has been great progress and tremendous changes in technology over the years, and I have worked hard to stay abreast of the changes,” explains Esther. 

“Communication systems have shifted from traditional legacy equipment to unified communication managers and call servers. To keep pace, I’ve attended communication systems training and taken on hands-on tasks to encourage growth and understanding.” 

The fast-paced, ever-evolving tech world demands constant attention and adaptability. 

Beyond the demands of the industry, Esther faces day-to-day challenges in the humanitarian sector: “Harsh environments and weather conditions are quite a challenge in peacekeeping mission, but I manage this by being flexible and having the ability to adjust to different environments and work harmoniously with people from diverse cultures. Sometimes I encounter language barriers, but this is easily resolved using Google translator.” 

These diverse experiences, she says, also enrich her life. “I once worked in a health facility where I would mingle with patients, medics and caregivers while executing my duty,” shares Esther. “As a technician, I would ensure there was communication between the patient wards and the operation areas, and it reminded me not to take good health for granted.”  

The future of tech is female

“I think it’s important for women to work in tech because the field demands qualities like resilience, patience, and an open mind – traits that many women naturally bring to the table,” comments Esther. “Women also tend to approach tasks with a high level of care and delicacy, which can lead to thoughtful, thorough work.” Esther feels this presence strengthens teams and brings fresh perspectives that drive innovation and better solutions.  

But, the industry is not static. Esther knows the importance staying ahead of ongoing adaptation if you’re looking to join the industry or advance your career.  

“Innovations such as AI and robotics call for new skills to accommodate the advancements,” says Esther of the future of working in the tech industry.  “There’s a need to actively invest in career growth and development to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies to maintain and ensure relevance in the market.”  

To young women interested in pursuing a career in tech, Esther says: “Go for it! Technology is evolving, get the necessary training and pursue your goals. Start somewhere and pursue growth.”