Kenya explores expanded US ties to boost digital transformation

by MARIA MACHARIA
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – KENYA is exploring partnerships with the United States to promote secure, resilient and inclusive connectivity in support of the East African country’s digital transformation agenda.

The discussions were formalised in Nairobi, where Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke hosted the United States Embassy Economic Team to discuss Kenya’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector and bilateral cooperation.

“The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss Kenya’s telecommunications policy and regulatory landscape, ongoing reforms within the ICT sector, and the country’s efforts to create an enabling environment for digital innovation and investment,” he said after Monday’s meeting.

Isaboke said discussions with the US delegation explored opportunities for collaboration in areas supporting Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, including innovation, investment, knowledge exchange and institutional cooperation.

“The engagement underscored the strong and growing partnership between Kenya and the United States in advancing the ICT sector and highlighted the shared commitment to leveraging technology to accelerate socio-economic development and digital inclusion.”

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing policies and regulatory frameworks that foster a competitive, secure and future-ready digital ecosystem capable of driving economic growth and expanding access to digital services.

The United States Embassy Economic Team is a specialised diplomatic unit responsible for managing bilateral economic policy, promoting international trade and safeguarding US commercial interests.

In Kenya, it oversees the US$1,5 billion bilateral trade relationship.

The team also plays a key role in promoting US investment in Kenya’s rapidly expanding technology sector and works closely with the Kenyan government to strengthen digital infrastructure and establish clear regulatory pathways for American technology companies.

The two countries maintain strong cooperation in technology and digital development, focusing on expanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, strengthening digital infrastructure and advancing artificial intelligence and data-sharing frameworks.

– CAJ News