NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya is setting the stage for a digital revolution, aiming to digitize 80pc of public services and make them accessible via the E-Citizen platform.
This ambitious initiative is a cornerstone of the country’s broader Digital Transformation Agenda, driving socio-economic growth and enhancing digital inclusion.
Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo of the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy announced that the government has already digitized 17,000 services on the E-Citizen platform.
This move aims to provide citizens with seamless access to essential services, leveraging internet connectivity and affordable devices.
“The digital transformation agenda must demonstrate impact in various aspects of our economy,” Owalo emphasized at the East African Communications Organisation (EACO) 29th Annual Assemblies and Extraordinary Congress in Nairobi.
He highlighted how digital access is transforming sectors like the judiciary and healthcare, bringing justice and quality medical services to even the remotest areas.
The government plans to deploy 100,000 km of fiber, establish 25,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots, and create 1,450 ICT hubs across the country within the next five years.
This initiative, in collaboration with the private sector, positions Kenya as a leader in the ICT space.
Dr. Sifundo Chief Moyo, Secretary General of the Pan African Postal Union (PAPU), underscored the importance of digital transformation and innovation in all human activities.
He highlighted the need for operators in postal, telecommunications, and broadcasting to embrace technologies that merge sectors at a rapid speed.
John Omo, Secretary General of the Africa Telecommunication Union (ATU), called for reliance on comprehensive and up-to-date ICT statistics to inform policies and initiatives.
He highlighted the disparities in internet accessibility between urban and rural areas, urging the need for policies that enable universal access.
Digitizing public services and boosting connectivity are effective ways of setting a benchmark for digital transformation, ensuring that all citizens can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
Kenya’s bold steps towards digitizing public services and boosting connectivity are setting a benchmark for digital transformation. As the nation continues to bridge the digital divide, it paves the way for a more connected and inclusive future, ensuring that all citizens can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
