By KPC Reporter
Kenya has urged the global community to ensure that rapid technological advances translate into real opportunities for ordinary citizens.
This is even as the country renewed its call for a more inclusive and people-centred approach to digital transformation.
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Speaking at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)+20 Outcome Review High-Level Meeting in New York, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke said digital progress must ultimately serve people, not just systems or profits.
“WSIS is about people, dignity, opportunity and rights,” he told delegates, warning that while technologies such as Artificial Intelligence are reshaping societies at unprecedented speed, millions still risk being left behind.
Mr Isaboke highlighted Kenya’s progress under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), noting that the government has expanded last-mile broadband connectivity through the Universal Service Fund to reach underserved and remote communities.
He said the establishment of 1,450 public digital hubs across the country has opened doors for young people, small businesses and innovators who previously had limited access to digital tools.
“These investments are about empowering citizens to participate in the digital economy, whether through online learning, e-commerce or access to government services,” he said.
However, the PS cautioned that ambition alone is not enough, calling for stronger and more innovative financing models to support digital growth, particularly in developing countries.
“Digital ambition without adequate financing is not sustainable,” he said, urging global partners to back commitments with resources that can translate policy into impact.
Kenya also used the forum to reaffirm its support for global cooperation on digital governance, including efforts to align emerging technologies with human rights, data protection and sustainable development.
The country signalled its readiness to work with other nations and stakeholders to shape the next phase of digital cooperation in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The meeting brought together government leaders, technology experts and international organisations to assess two decades of progress since the original WSIS framework and to chart a future path for inclusive digital development.
Kenya’s delegation included its Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ekitela Lokaale, Special Envoy on Technology Ambassador Philip Thigo, and officials from the Communications Authority of Kenya.
Their participation underscored the country’s growing role in global digital policy conversations.
