KAKAMEGA, Kenya – President William Ruto has directed all Members of Parliament (MPs) to establish at least one Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) hub in every ward across the country.
Speaking in Kakamega County during the launch of the Nyota Programme on Friday, the President said the move is part of his government’s plan to expand Kenya’s digital infrastructure, create youth employment, and promote innovation and e-commerce.
“We have asked every Member of Parliament to build at least one ICT hub in every ward because we want to equip those hubs and enable between 200 and 300 young people to access digital jobs, e-commerce and other online opportunities,” Ruto said.
He revealed that the government is also rolling out 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable nationwide to support faster internet connectivity — with 30,000 kilometres already completed.
Ruto said the initiative will bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas and ensure that no part of Kenya is left behind in the digital economy.
“Technology democratises opportunity,” he said. “We want every young person, regardless of where they live, to have equal access to digital opportunities. That is how we will grow our economy inclusively.”
Each ICT hub will be equipped with computers, high-speed internet, and workspaces where youth can engage in digital freelancing, innovation, software development, and e-commerce. The facilities will also provide training and link young entrepreneurs to global online markets.
The plan will be implemented in partnership with MPs, the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, and private sector players. Legislators are expected to allocate funds through the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Ruto’s directive aligns with the Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to position Kenya as a regional digital powerhouse.
Several constituencies have already piloted similar projects under government-backed initiatives such as Ajira Digital and Jitume, which offer digital skills training and access to online workspaces in TVETs and universities.
President Ruto said his administration will continue investing in technology as a key driver of youth empowerment and economic growth.
