Key officials from the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy met with representatives from the European Union (EU) in Nairobi to explore partnership opportunities for advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda. The meeting, led by Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo, ICT and The Digital Economy PS Eng. John Tanui, and Broadcasting and Telecommunications PS Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, emphasized the crucial role played by the EU in supporting technological progress in Kenya.

CS Owalo highlighted significant projects within the digital transformation agenda, including the rollout of 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable, the establishment of 25,000 Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide, the creation of 1,450 digital hubs, and the digitization of government records and services. The government has already digitalized 13,382 services available on the e-citizen platform and embarked on substantial digital skills training.

Furthermore, the Kenyan government aims to foster digital entrepreneurship and inclusivity in the digital agenda, with a particular focus on creating digital job opportunities for the youth. CS Owalo appealed for EU support in acquiring 500,000 computers to establish digital hubs across the country.

Amb. Henriette Geiger, EU Ambassador, affirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s digital transformation, noting an investment of Kshs. 7.1 Billion (450 million euros). Discussions also revolved around addressing cybersecurity challenges, achieving financial inclusion, and providing funding for universities and research centers to fulfill their core mandates. The EU’s dedication to practical support for Kenya’s digital transformation endeavors was reiterated during the meeting. Ambassadors from several EU member states were present to discuss these collaborative initiatives.