Editor's Review

The meeting was co-chaired by Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Motari Isaboke and Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy John Kipchumba Tanui.

By Josiah Kariuki

The Government and the World Bank have reviewed the progress of the Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project (KDEAP), focusing on how investments under the programme can deliver greater benefits to citizens.

The meeting was co-chaired by Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Motari Isaboke and Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy John Kipchumba Tanui.

The engagement brought together senior government officials and a World Bank delegation to assess progress, review ongoing investments and identify areas requiring greater focus to enhance the project’s impact.

The officials said digital infrastructure was critical to economic growth, social inclusion, innovation and the delivery of public services.

The review focused on expanding connectivity to underserved areas, improving digital literacy, equipping young people with technology skills and increasing access to digital services for businesses, schools, healthcare institutions and government offices.

KDEAP is a flagship government programme supporting the Digital Superhighway agenda, which seeks to expand broadband connectivity, strengthen digital skills, improve access to government services and create opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Through its partnership with the World Bank and other development partners, the Government aims to bridge the digital divide and expand participation in the digital economy.

Isaboke said investments in digital infrastructure should translate into improved livelihoods, job creation, greater access to information and better public service delivery.

The meeting also emphasised closer collaboration between government agencies, development partners and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of digital transformation programmes.

The officials said the success of KDEAP should ultimately be measured by its impact on citizens and communities rather than infrastructure delivered alone.

The review comes as Kenya seeks to strengthen its position as a leading digital hub in Africa by expanding connectivity and creating an environment for innovation and technology-driven economic growth.

Implementation of KDEAP will continue to focus on ensuring that investments in digital infrastructure and services provide tangible benefits to citizens, businesses and public institutions.