Kenya is currently hosting the Africa Regional Development Forum, an event organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations agency dedicated to advancing digital technology.
The forum, led by Kenya’s Communications Authority, is a high-level gathering bringing together ITU member states, private sector leaders, academics, civil society, the UN, and various development organizations. Their focus is on reviewing and advancing Africa’s digital development goals, especially those agreed upon at the 2022 World Telecommunication Development Conference in Kigali, Rwanda.
Speaking at the forum’s opening in Nairobi, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, called on African nations to use regional cooperation and strong leadership to drive digital transformation and close the digital gap. He urged the continent to make use of its vast resources: economic, cultural, human, and natural, for sustainable ICT growth.
Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, highlighted the government’s commitment to digital development, emphasizing investments in broadband expansion, public Wi-Fi access, and digital skills training for youth as part of Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
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David Mugonyi, Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya, described the forum as a strategic platform preparing Africa for the 2025 World Telecommunication Development Conference. He stressed the importance of ensuring Africa’s interests are well-represented in global ICT decisions.
A key concern raised during the event was Africa’s digital divide, which continues to exclude many from the benefits of a connected world. The forum aims to tackle this challenge and pave the way for inclusive digital progress across the continent.
