Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has called for a people centred approach to Africa’s digital transformation, warning that emerging technologies must be developed and governed in ways that protect citizens’ rights and strengthen public trust.
Mr Kabogo said governments across the continent must ensure that digital systems are secure, transparent and accountable as Africa rapidly adopts artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
Opening the Summit on People Centred Technologies in Africa, the CS brought together government officials, civil society organisations, technology experts, academics and other stakeholders to deliberate on how technology can be harnessed to improve lives, strengthen communities and promote peace, inclusion and accountability.
He said Africa’s digital transformation would only succeed if citizens had confidence in the systems being developed and deployed.
“As Africa accelerates its digital transformation, every digital system we develop or regulate must earn and maintain public trust while safeguarding citizens’ rights to privacy, freedom of expression and access to information,” Mr Kabogo said.
His remarks come as Kenya prepares to host the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence Governance Forum later this year, placing the country at the centre of international discussions on responsible artificial intelligence governance.
Mr Kabogo urged participants to move beyond policy discussions and translate them into practical measures that can strengthen Africa’s technological capabilities.
He called for increased investment in local technical expertise, greater support for African innovators and stronger safeguards to ensure that emerging technologies operate within the law and remain transparent and accountable.
The CS reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with other governments, civil society, the private sector and development partners to create a secure and inclusive digital environment.
He said Kenya’s ambition was to ensure that technology serves citizens rather than leaving communities behind as the continent embraces rapid digital change.
In a separate demonstration of Kenya’s investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Mr Kabogo also flagged off Team Kenya Robotics at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as the young innovators departed for Incheon, South Korea.
The team will represent Kenya at the FIRST Global Challenge 2026, scheduled for October 7 and 10.
The competition, held under the theme “Igniting Innovation,” will bring together young innovators from around the world to develop technological solutions to challenges associated with wildfire prevention, mitigation and recovery.
Mr Kabogo said the Kenyan team represented the creativity, determination and technological ambitions of a new generation of young people.
“These brilliant young Kenyans carry with them our national pride and the aspirations of a generation embracing science, technology, engineering and innovation,” he said.
The team travels to South Korea with an impressive international record, having won a silver medal and finished as first runners-up at the 2025 FIRST Global Challenge in Panama City.
Mr Kabogo said the Government would continue creating opportunities for young innovators and expanding access to STEM education and skills as Kenya positions itself to compete in the global digital economy.
He said nurturing innovation among young people was critical to building a generation capable of developing home grown solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing challenges.
The team’s participation in the global competition also highlights the growing role of Kenyan youth in technological innovation and international scientific competitions.
Mr Kabogo encouraged the young innovators to carry Kenya’s flag with pride and demonstrate the country’s capacity to compete on the global technology stage.
He wished Team Kenya success as it embarks on the South Korean competition, urging the innovators to make the country proud.
The twin engagements underscore the Government’s broader digital agenda combining responsible technology governance with investment in a new generation of innovators expected to drive Kenya’s technological and economic transformation.
