Kenya’s digital economy is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade, with the government projecting it could reach nearly USD 13 billion (about Ksh1.6 trillion) by 2035.
Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke said the growth will be driven by continued investment in internet connectivity, digital services, innovation and technology-based businesses.
The PS spoke on Friday during the launch of the META Economic Impact in Sub-Saharan Africa Report and the META Transform with AI Programme.
As per Isaboke, the current value of Kenya’s digital economy is at about USD 4.2 billion. This shows how quickly the country has embraced digital technology.
According to him, major investments made in the construction of internet infrastructure, including subsea fibre optic cables like 2Africa, will help enhance Internet access and reinforce Kenya’s digital economy status in the region.
“Strategic investments in international connectivity are expected to add about USD 1.2 billion annually to the economy, while adding about 4.4 million new Internet connections by 2035,” he said.
The PS added that internet reliability in Kenya has improved significantly over the last ten years, with about 86 per cent of Kenyans reporting better and more stable internet services.
Digital platforms have become very instrumental beyond mere communication in growing the digital economy as they are assisting small enterprises, content producers, youthful entrepreneurs, and even informal sector players in expanding their market footprint through their business operations.
The development of the digital economy, as stated by Isaboke, is contributing to the implementation of the country’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), creating job opportunities and business openings for many Kenyans.
Furthermore, he pointed out the use of technology and artificial intelligence as key to promoting innovations and economic growth in Kenya.
