NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to building a safe and inclusive digital ecosystem as government and technology leaders gathered in Nairobi for the TikTok Safer Internet Summit 2026.
Speaking during the opening of the summit, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said social media platforms are playing a growing role in supporting digital creativity, innovation, and economic opportunity across Africa.
The summit, convened by TikTok, brought together policymakers, regulators, technology leaders, civil society organisations, and digital creators from across the continent to discuss the future of digital innovation and online safety.
Kabogo noted that Kenya’s digital economy has become a key pillar of national development, driven by government initiatives aimed at expanding digital infrastructure and equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
He highlighted the rapid growth of the digital creator economy, saying it is opening new avenues for entrepreneurship, expression and income generation for many young people.
TikTok Safer Internet Summit 2026Social media platforms such as TikTok are playing an increasing role in supporting digital creativity, innovation and economic opportunities while enabling citizens to participate in the digital economy.Earlier today I officially opened the
However, the Cabinet Secretary warned that the expansion of the digital space also presents emerging risks that must be addressed to protect users and sustain growth.
“These gains must be safeguarded by tackling challenges such as misinformation, online scams, harmful content targeting minors, cybercrime and the protection of personal data,” he said.
Kabogo said the government is strengthening oversight measures to improve user protection, including enhanced cybersecurity frameworks, stronger data privacy safeguards, improved digital literacy programmes and age verification systems to protect young users online.
He also pointed to the increasing influence of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, noting that innovation must be accompanied by trust, transparency and responsible governance.
“The government remains committed to fostering a digital environment that empowers creators, supports innovation and unlocks the full potential of Africa’s digital future,” he said.
Among the leaders attending the summit were Kenny Morolong, Deputy Minister in the Presidency of South Africa, and Philip Thigo, Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology, alongside other industry stakeholders and digital innovators.
