Kenya’s ICT Cabinet Secretary calls for coordinated African digital policy at ATU High-Level Meeting

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, has emphasised the need for stronger collaboration, harmonised regulation and shared innovation to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation. He made the remarks at a High-Level Breakfast convened by the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) with African envoys accredited to Kenya.

The forum was designed to establish closer coordination between diplomatic missions in Nairobi and the ATU Secretariat, headquartered in Kenya, to support continental alignment in policy, standards and regulatory approaches. Mr. Kabogo stated that Africa is at a defining moment in its digital journey, and that coordinated action will be key to strengthening digital economies, boosting inclusion and supporting sustainable development.

He highlighted meaningful connectivity, cybersecurity, digital trust and harmonised standards as critical enablers of growth and transparency across the continent. Kabogo also noted that Africa’s youthful population and strong innovation culture present major opportunities to leverage emerging technologies for economic transformation.

Kabogo was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Stephen Isaboke. The ATU Secretary General, John Omo, and several diplomats and invited guests were also present at the event.