The government is stepping up efforts to expand digital hubs across the country as part of a plan to create jobs and equip young people with tech skills.
In a move geared towards making ICT accessible to every Kenyan, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo presented before a joint sitting of the National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation and NG-CDF Committee on the progress of Digital Hubs Project.
Addressing the joint session chaired by MPs John Kiarie and Musa Sirma, the CS spoke about the progress made in rolling out digital hubs, the challenges encountered so far and actions that have been taken to mitigate these problems.
According to CS Kabogo, the project is one of the major initiatives aimed at promoting President William Ruto’s digital transformation agenda.
“The Ministry will continue working with various stakeholders in ensuring we roll out more digital hubs,” he said.
As per the latest report, more than 300 digital hubs have already been established, equipped with over 20,000 devices. The government will now seek to ensure completion and opening of 101 hubs within two months.
In addition, 199 hubs are under construction in 22 constituencies. These will be equipped and opened on a first-completed, first-equipped basis.
According to Kabogo, there have been several challenges with the initiative, particularly concerning coordination among different agencies. He assured, however, that efforts are being made to make sure the programme is properly coordinated to prevent any delays in its implementation.
The objective is for every hub to be equipped, connected, staffed, and accessible to support an inclusive digital economy.
The hubs are expected to act as venues for youth empowerment through the acquisition of digital skills in view of the booming digital economy.
The event was attended by Principal Secretary for ICTs, John Tanui; Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri; ICT Authority CEO Jessy Kiveu; and other high-ranking government officials.
