Kenya is at the forefront of East Africa’s digital and innovation transformation, driving initiatives that align with the United Nations Pact for the Future. The country’s proactive approach promotes digital inclusivity and economic empowerment, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy.
Committing to Global Ambitions
During the recent United Nations Day celebration, ICT Cabinet Secretary Dr. Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u emphasized Kenya’s dedication to transforming global ambitions into actionable steps. She highlighted the importance of the Pact for the Future, a vision aimed at ensuring no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital world.
“Today, we convene for a unique intergenerational dialogue to localize The Pact for the Future—a bold vision to ensure no one is left behind in our rapidly evolving world,” Dr. Ndung’u stated.
Empowering Youth and Women
Kenya’s digital transformation goals are exemplified through initiatives like Ajira and Jitume, which focus on empowering youth and women with critical digital skills for global job markets. These programs align with the UN’s goals for sustainable and inclusive digital ecosystems.
“Our goal is to enable every Kenyan to participate in the digital economy actively,” Dr. Ndung’u said, underscoring the importance of these initiatives in promoting digital inclusivity.
Expanding Connectivity
The National Optic Fibre Backbone Infrastructure (NOFBI) project extends internet access to underserved regions, enhancing e-commerce and educational opportunities for citizens. These investments are crucial in bridging the digital divide and establishing Kenya as a digital economy hub.
ICT and E-Government Secretary Ms. Mary Kerema praised Ajira and Jitume, highlighting their role in empowering youth to control their economic future by accessing global opportunities from Kenya.
“These programs do not just provide skills; they empower our youth to take control of their economic future by accessing global opportunities from right here in Kenya,” Ms. Kerema stated during an intergenerational dialogue at the UN headquarters in Gigiri.
Fostering Innovation
Kenya nurtures its innovation ecosystem with favorable policies and funding for startups, particularly within Nairobi’s Silicon Savannah. This ecosystem is essential for fostering local entrepreneurship, scaling innovation, and positioning Kenya at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation.
Ms. Kerema emphasized the importance of incubators across the country, which provide young entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, and collaborative spaces. This support enables Kenyan startups to make unique contributions to the global digital landscape.
Digitizing Public Services
E-government services are a key focus, with Kenya digitizing public services to improve transparency, accessibility, and accountability in government-citizen interactions. These services span education, health, and business, showcasing the benefits of integrating digital tools for economic and social development.
Pact for the Future
Kenya is leading East Africa’s digital and innovation ecosystem, aligning its initiatives with the United Nations’ Pact for the Future. Through programs like Ajira and Jitume, investments in connectivity, and support for startups, Kenya is driving digital inclusivity and economic empowerment. By digitizing public services and fostering innovation, Kenya is setting the stage for sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Stay updated with our blog for more insights on Kenya’s digital transformation and its role in shaping East Africa’s innovation ecosystem.