The United Nations has appointed Dr. Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u, Kenya’s former Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and Digital Economy, to its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board. The selection
recognizes her nearly three decades of expertise in shaping Africa’s digital
transformation and positions her to influence global technology governance
frameworks.
Dr. Ndung’u
brings a distinguished track record in digital policy development, having
spearheaded Kenya’s National Digital Masterplan (2022–2032) and contributed to
continental initiatives like the African Union’s Child Online Safety and
Empowerment Policy. Her appointment underscores Africa’s growing role in
defining ethical standards for emerging technologies.
As a founding
member of the Network of African Women in Cybersecurity, Dr. Ndung’u has
championed both technical innovation and inclusive policymaking. Her experience
spans government leadership, academic research, and private sector engagement,
including a PhD in Information Systems and postdoctoral work at South Africa’s
Tshwane University of Technology.
The UN Office
for Digital and Emerging Technologies cited her unique ability to bridge
technical and socioeconomic perspectives as critical for developing responsible
digital infrastructure safeguards. Dr. Ndung’u’s advisory role will focus on
balancing innovation with equitable access and security in global DPI
systems.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
