Kenya to Become Africa’s Digital Capital with Plans to Digitize Government Records

Kenya has announced plans to digitize all of its government records within the next five years. The country has become one of Africa’s tech hotspots due to its keen adoption of tech solutions and exploration of the possibilities within the field. The Cabinet Secretary of the ICT and Digital Economy, Eliud Owalo, made the announcement during the launch of the innovation exhibition at KICC, Nairobi, stating that the government was working to transform Kenya into a world-class society and Africa’s digital capital.

The Ministry of ICT has already digitized 350 government services and processes, and over the next six months, this number will increase to 5,000. This will include digitizing the Cabinet. The project is open to both local and international partners, and the government is looking forward to Public-Private-Partnerships in the ICT and innovation spaces to address issues within the tech and innovation ecosystem, including training, talent development, placement, and the creation of digital jobs.

In addition to digitizing its government records, the Kenyan government is also expanding its national fiber optic network by 100,000 km. The Ministry of ICT has begun providing government-funded internet to the public through state-funded hotspots, and by 2027, they expect to have 25,000 of these hotspots in place. These hotspots will convert villages and marketplaces into digital hubs, providing internet access to more people and boosting the country’s digital economy.

The government is investing in the necessary institutions and infrastructure to support its digitization efforts, while also creating enabling policy, legal, and regulatory frameworks. This will ensure that the digitization of government records is successful and sustainable. By digitizing its records, the Kenyan government will be able to improve the efficiency and transparency of its operations, making it easier for citizens to access information and services.

Overall, the Kenyan government’s plan to digitize its records is a positive step towards boosting the country’s digital economy and providing better services to its citizens. By adopting new technologies and improving its digital infrastructure, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in the tech industry in Africa.