Kenya's multifaceted strategy speeds digital journey
Kenya is in advanced talks with a Chinese company to expand its 5G network.
Simultaneously, it is increasing collaborations with the United Kingdom (UK) to bridge the digital gap while receiving support from Romania to combat cyber security.
Kenya's cabinet secretary for information, communications, and the digital economy, William Kabogo Gitau, met with envoys and industry leaders from these countries this week.
He also engaged with an executive team from Ultichip Communication Technology, a Chinese company specialising in wireless communication solutions.
The Nairobi meeting followed one held last month when the company unveiled its latest product, an improved 5G portable base station meant to provide quicker, more affordable internet connectivity, he explained.
Gitau stated on Thursday that they had in-depth discussions about the 5G technology.
“The technology we acquire and introduce into our country should be the latest, the most secure and cost-effective,” he said after the meeting.
“We will engage with all partners and stakeholders as we explore to consolidate Kenya's position as technology global leader.”
Furthermore, Kenya is committed about bridging the digital divide through working together with the UK under the Strengthening Digital Communities program, which was launched in July.
Gitau asserted that the project had trained 17,000 young people in fundamental digital skills, with 10 046 completing demanding virtual training programs.
According to him, the trainees have since shared their expertise with over 600,000 citizens, providing them with important skills such as digital device operation, accessing government services, and cyber vigilance.
"With continued partnership, transparency, and innovation, we will create digital opportunities that extend to every corner of our nation," he declared at a Kenya ICT Action Network event.
At the occasion, which was attended by delegates from the United Kingdom and Romania, he stated that the latter had provided scholarships to Kenyans for cyber security and other digital skills.