ICT Sector Stakeholders’ Engagement
The Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, CBS, has called for urgent harmonization of ICT infrastructure, emerging technologies, and legislative frameworks to strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading regional digital hub. He noted that despite significant progress under the Government’s Digital Superhighway agenda, several legislative and fiscal challenges continue to slow down implementation efforts.
Speaking on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, H.E. Hon. William Kabogo, during the ICT Sector Stakeholders’ Engagement Retreat at Lake Naivasha Resort, Eng. Tanui highlighted key milestones already achieved. These include plans to roll out 100,000 kilometers of fibre optic cable and establish 25,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots across the country to expand digital access and connectivity.
The PS emphasized the need to eliminate double taxation within the telecommunications sector, noting that overlapping national licensing requirements and expensive county wayleave charges have increased the cost of doing business and hindered rural network expansion. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to promoting infrastructure sharing, strengthening intergovernmental coordination, and standardizing infrastructure costs to support affordable and efficient ICT deployment.
Eng. Tanui further stated that reducing duplicative taxation and streamlining ICT infrastructure costs would attract greater private sector investment and lower the cost of digital services for Kenyans. He also praised the Senate ICT Committee, led by TransNzoia Senator Allan Chesang, and the ICT Authority under CEO Jessy Maruti, for their continued legislative and strategic support in advancing Kenya’s digital transformation agenda.
“Let us harness this momentum to dismantle the barriers standing in the way of our Digital Superhighway and build a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered Kenya,” added Eng. Tanui.