7 October 2024, Nairobi - Digital Platforms Kenya (DigiKen), officially launched today marking a significant step in Kenya's drive toward a sustainable digital future. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in Kenya, especially in rural areas through local digital platforms and sustainable development strategies.
DigiKen is spearheaded by the country’s Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Margaret Nyambura Ndung'u and co-funded by the United Nations Joint Sustainable Development Goals Fund. Four UN agencies lead the implementation: the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), UN Women and the UN Capital Development Fund.
The initiative will harness digital technology to grow Kenya's economy and promote inclusivity. A key focus of the programme is to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), especially those led by women and youth in the green sector. Enterprises will receive support that includes access to capital, investment facilitation, and de-risking mechanisms that enable sustainable business practices.
Digital education and innovation are central in the approach to implementing DigiKen, with plans to train more than 20,000 government officials in digital governance and transformation by 2027. These trainings aim to equip leaders make data-driven decisions that enhance public services and support an inclusive digital economy. Additionally, 15 Digital Innovation Hubs will be supported nationwide to provide training in digital skills, media literacy, and artificial intelligence, focusing on underserved communities.
Governance is another critical aspect of DigiKen, which will see the development of frameworks such as a national strategy for artificial intelligence, a media literacy policy, and recommendations for sustainable digital policies. These policies will ensure Kenya's digital economy is built on sustainability, inclusivity, and respect for rights.
The environmental aspect is emphasized by UNEP’s focus on green digital platforms. UNEP will support small businesses in key sectors to create sustainable market opportunities, combining economic growth with climate action.
By 2027, the DigiKen initiative aims to create 4,500 direct jobs and 20,000 indirect jobs, improving access to digital platforms for over two million Kenyans. With an expected private-sector investment of USD 55 million, the programme aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030, setting the stage for an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable digital future for the country.
For more information: Irene Mwoga, Sub Programme Coordinator for Digital Transformation, UNEP Regional Office for Africa
