Kenya is set to benefit from approximately KSh15.3 billion (€102 million) in new investments under the European Union-Kenya Digital Partnership aimed at accelerating digital transformation, expanding internet connectivity and creating opportunities for businesses and young people.
President William Ruto announced the development following talks with European Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, where the two leaders discussed ways of strengthening cooperation between Kenya and the European Union in trade, innovation and the digital economy.
The investment package is expected to support Kenya’s efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure and enhance access to technology-driven services across the country.
“We welcome €102 million (approximately KSh 15.3 billion) in new investments under the EU-Kenya Digital Partnership to accelerate digital transformation, expand connectivity and create opportunities for our youth and businesses. We also welcome €37 million in EU support for the Blue Raman submarine cable’s Africa extension connecting Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya and Tanzania, which will strengthen connectivity, lower bandwidth costs and reinforce Kenya’s position as a leading regional digital hub,’he said.
In addition, Kenya welcomed €37 million in EU support for the African extension of the Blue Raman submarine cable project, which will connect Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya and Tanzania. The project is expected to improve regional connectivity, lower bandwidth costs and strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading digital hub in Africa.
The discussions also reviewed the implementation of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which has facilitated increased trade between Kenya and the European Union.
According to President Ruto, Kenyan exports to the European Union have grown by more than 20 percent since the agreement came into force, creating jobs and opening new market opportunities for farmers and manufacturers.
The two sides also welcomed progress under the EU-Kenya Digital Partnership, particularly in areas such as the Digital Dialogue and the Data Adequacy process, initiatives aimed at enhancing digital trade, attracting investment and improving data governance.
Ruto noted that these efforts are expected to reinforce Kenya’s growing reputation as a regional technology powerhouse and strengthen its standing as one of the world’s leading destinations for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services.
The President said the partnership between Kenya and the European Union continues to unlock investment opportunities, drive innovation and promote shared economic growth.
The latest commitments come as Kenya intensifies efforts to position itself as a digital economy leader in Africa through investments in technology infrastructure, digital skills and innovation-driven enterprises.