The National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation (CII) has held a joint engagement with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and other key industry players to explore practical strategies for driving Kenya’s digital transformation.
Committee Chair Hon. John Kiarie said the session focused on three priority areas—demystifying the myth of “free” Wi-Fi, strengthening public-private investment partnerships, and addressing data protection and information integrity.
Kiarie emphasized that while expanding internet access is essential, policies must balance affordability with sustainability. “Connectivity cannot be free; we must build realistic incentives that expand access while supporting viable business models,” he noted.
Stakeholders also called for clearer frameworks to attract private sector investment and align it with government priorities.
The committee underscored that technology projects must go beyond pilot stages, with structures that balance risk, reward, and regulatory certainty to unlock private financing.
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, represented by Ms. Immaculate Kassait, highlighted that data privacy is a shared responsibility.
She revealed that over 80% of reported data privacy cases have been resolved, adding that the commission is working closely with KEPSA on joint training programs.
Kassait cautioned against weak practices such as “conditional consent,” where individuals automatically surrender privacy rights, warning that such trends could normalize data misuse.
Committee member Hon. Mark Nyamita called for greater inclusion of youth in the data economy, urging that educational and policy frameworks be tailored to build a skilled digital workforce.
Meanwhile, certified network operators raised alarm over rampant fiber vandalism and illegal infrastructure rollouts, urging lawmakers to introduce protective measures to secure legitimate investments, jobs, and service continuity.
The consultative forum continues tomorrow with further discussions led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula, alongside other parliamentary and private sector leaders.
