Costly devices hurting ICT sector – KEPSA

Kenya Private Sector Alliance  has raised several challenges facing the ICT sector in the country.
Speaking during a meeting with ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Ndung’u, KEPSA CEO Carole Kariuki highlighted the high cost of devices and limited access to e-government services as some of the challenges facing the sector.
Inadequate protection of ICT infrastructure and the difficulties MSMEs face in accessing technology are other issues raised.
“These challenges ripple across other industries, citing the inefficiencies in the eVisa system as an obstacle that hampers investor entry and negatively affects the hospitality sector,” Kariuki remarked.
The engagement comes as preparation for the highly anticipated Ministerial Stakeholder Forum slated for 16 December 2024.
The forum aims to bring together key stakeholders from the ICT sector to discuss pressing policy, regulatory, and legal matters.
It will also help foster partnerships on transformative programmes such as Microsoft’s Digital Skills and Employment Advancement Programme, the Ajira Digital Programme by Mastercard Foundation, and the Twende Digital Programme under the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment.
Kariuki emphasised the need for closer collaboration between the ministry and the private sector to develop innovative solutions that create a conducive environment for business growth.
The discussion also delved into youth empowerment and digital literacy as pivotal drivers of Kenya’s competitiveness.
KEPSA’s CEO highlighted the success of the Ajira Digital Programme, a collaborative initiative with the government that has significantly boosted youth employment.
Microsoft’s representative, Winnie Karanu, outlined the company’s efforts to enhance digital skills nationwide.
She noted that Microsoft offers free, self-paced learning resources on advanced topics like generative AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability, all aimed at fostering market-ready expertise, particularly in underserved regions.
Ndung’u acknowledged ICT’s transformative role in driving business and social impact.
She proposed a roadmap to strengthen partnerships with private sector players like KEPSA and Microsoft to ensure digital literacy programmes are sustainable and impactful.The Cabinet Secretary underscored the importance of inclusivity, challenging the stakeholders to extend these programs to marginalized communities.
 
The upcoming forum is expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration between the government and private sector to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities within the ICT ecosystem.