Microsoft will engage the National Government, Ministries, Departments and Agencies through ICT Authority in a joint working framework which is expected to be finalized in February 2024.

The Kenyan government will now implement Microsoft's cloud-first strategy to improve public service delivery through its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Authority.

Microsoft will engage the National Government, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies through the ICT Authority in a mutually beneficial working framework that will be finalised in February 2024, according to the agreement inked on Wednesday.

The ICT Authority is in charge of rationalising and streamlining the management of all ICT functions within the government.

The agreement aims to improve Kenya's digital transformation by aiding the government in meeting the objectives of the Kenyan Digital Economy Blueprint. 

This includes the use of technology and the improvement of efficiencies in the delivery of e-government services to citizens.

"I'd like to thank Microsoft for this opportunity, which has come at the perfect time. We anticipate that by the end of this relationship, we will have increased our cyber security awareness, digital abilities, and developed important technical areas for a thriving digital economy," According to Stanley Kamanguya, CEO of the ICT Authority,

Kamanguya stated that the relationship will allow the Authority to contribute to the development of digital skills, among other ICT pillars, assuring a healthy digital economy.

Kunle Awosika, Microsoft's Head of Public Sector in Africa, stated that Microsoft was pleased to participate into the relationship, which will attempt to provide an open and enabling environment for Government departments to make technology and cloud platform decisions through the ICT Authority.

"Through the framework agreement which will be developed, we look forward to ensure that this MoU becomes fruitful for the mutual benefits of our institutions," he told reporters.

Phyllis Migwi, Country Manager of Microsoft in Kenya, also praised the agreement and said they will cooperate with authorities to support the government's digital economy strategy.

" With over 20 years of experience in Kenya, we believe that this partnership will strengthen the digital transformation agenda," she said.