The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, with plans to expand access to technology, enhance digital skills, and create employment opportunities through the nationwide rollout of innovation hubs.
Speaking after appearing before a joint sitting of the National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation and the NG-CDF Committee, Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said the government will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure the success of the Digital Innovation Hubs Project.
“We will continue to engage stakeholders as we expand access to technology and skills and create jobs through the establishment of digital hubs across the country,” Kabogo stated.
The session, chaired by John Kiarie and Musa Sirma, focused on reviewing the progress, challenges, and future plans of the flagship project, which is a cornerstone of President William Ruto’s broader digital transformation agenda.
Kabogo acknowledged the support of Members of Parliament in advancing the initiative, noting that their backing has been instrumental in pushing forward implementation across constituencies. He, however, pointed to coordination gaps and logistical challenges that have slowed progress in some areas.
To address these bottlenecks, the Ministry has introduced measures aimed at streamlining coordination among implementing agencies and improving project execution timelines.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, more than 300 digital hubs are already operational across the country, supported by over 20,000 devices. In addition, a time-bound plan has been put in place to ensure that 101 completed hubs are fully equipped, staffed, and operational within the next two months.
Further expansion is underway, with 199 hubs currently under construction in various constituencies. Kabogo said additional sites are set to break ground soon, with the government adopting a “first-completed, first-equipped” approach to expedite service delivery.
The Digital Innovation Hubs Project is designed to position each centre as a focal point for skills development, innovation, and job creation, particularly targeting the youth who form the bulk of Kenya’s unemployed population.
“The Ministry’s focus is to ensure that each digital hub functions as a centre for skills development and job creation for young people,” Kabogo said, emphasizing the goal of building an inclusive digital economy where all Kenyans can access opportunities regardless of location.
The initiative also aligns with ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas by ensuring that every hub is adequately equipped, connected to reliable internet, and staffed with skilled personnel.
Kabogo was accompanied at the parliamentary session by Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy Eng. John Tanui, Konza Technopolis Chief Executive Officer John Paul Okwiri, ICT Authority CEO Jessy Maruti Kiveu, and Secretary for ICT Infrastructure Washington Okoth, alongside other senior government officials.
As the government pushes forward with the ambitious rollout, the success of the digital hubs is expected to play a critical role in unlocking innovation, nurturing talent, and driving Kenya’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
