Kenya’s ICT ministry backs local innovation to scale ventures across Africa

Kenya is taking center stage in driving Africa's digital transformation, with ambitious plans to bolster the digital economy and facilitate job creation through innovative strategies. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Stanley Kamanguya, CEO of the ICT Authority, outlined key initiatives aimed at propelling Kenya and the continent forward in the digital realm. The focus is on enhancing cross-border data sharing, implementing supportive policies, and fostering ethical AI practices to unlock private capital and stimulate economic growth. As Kamanguya emphasized, the digital economy serves as the linchpin for future social and economic advancement, not only for Kenya but for the entire continent. A pivotal aspect of Kenya's digital strategy is the development of robust digital infrastructure. Recognizing the critical importance of laying the groundwork for technological advancements, the ICT Authority is committed to expanding the country's fiber optic network to connect an additional 100,000 institutions by 2025. By providing the essential infrastructure, Kenya aims to catalyze investments, drive innovation, and fuel growth in the ICT sector. To date, approximately 3,700 institutions have been connected, with plans to reach an additional 7,000 within the year, setting the stage for a burgeoning digital ecosystem. In parallel, Kenya is actively addressing policy and regulatory frameworks to create an enabling environment for innovation and investment. The country has rolled out strategies such as a national cybersecurity strategy and an AI framework to guide the responsible use and development of AI technologies. Moreover, Kenya has revamped its investment policies to attract private capital, including scrapping the 30% local shareholding rule to bolster investments. By streamlining the regulatory landscape and enhancing the ease of doing business, Kenya is paving the way for a thriving digital economy. Furthermore, Kenya has been instrumental in advancing regional collaboration through initiatives like the Nairobi Declaration. By fostering partnerships with neighboring countries, Kenya is promoting cross-border data sharing and harmonizing digital policies across Africa. This collective effort aims to accelerate digital skilling, AI adoption, and data privacy standards to propel the continent towards the AU Digital Transformation Strategy and Agenda 2063. Through concerted multilateral actions, African nations are laying the foundation for a unified and seamless digital market that attracts investments and drives innovation. To attract private capital and foster public-private partnerships, Kenya is exploring innovative funding models and engaging with development partners to co-own infrastructure projects. By showcasing investment opportunities through platforms like the Kenya Investments Agency and hosting investor roundtables globally, Kenya is positioning itself as a prime destination for digital investments. Additionally, efforts to harmonize ICT policies across Africa are crucial in easing regulatory barriers and presenting a cohesive digital market to investors, facilitating the scaling of innovations and accelerating economic growth. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Kenya's steadfast commitment to nurturing local innovation, enhancing connectivity, and fostering a conducive business environment sets a compelling precedent for Africa's digital future. By leveraging technology as a catalyst for economic progress and job creation, Kenya is at the forefront of shaping a vibrant digital ecosystem that holds vast potential for the continent's socio-economic development.