William Kabogo, CS for ICT abd Digital Economy. Speaking at Connected Africa Summit
Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, has called on African governments to scale up investment in the ICT sector to accelerate digital inclusion across the continent.
Speaking during the official opening of the 14th Annual Connected Africa Summit (CAS) 2025 in Diani, Kwale County, Kabogo emphasized the urgent need to bridge the continent’s digital divide and implement the commitments made under the Nairobi Declaration on Fostering a Connected and Empowered Africa.
Highlighting the transformative role of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Kabogo noted that Africa must co-create, co-innovate, and co-invest in digital solutions to remain globally competitive. “Emerging technologies like AI will shape the future of Africa’s digital landscape. We must strengthen our cross-border collaborations, invest in infrastructure, and build skills to ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
According to the Mo Ibrahim Forum report, a staggering 89 percent of learners in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to household computers, and 82 percent are without internet connectivity. These statistics underline the urgent need for digital infrastructure development and inclusive access policies.
The African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to boost fast internet connectivity, reduce broadband costs, and foster a digitally empowered society, was cited as a critical framework for guiding the continent’s digital transformation.
The summit, themed “The Digital Journey: Vision to Reality,” has brought together delegates from over 22 African countries, including ministers, development partners, private sector leaders, and ICT professionals. Key focus areas include regional integration, cloud and data infrastructure, cybersecurity, innovation ecosystems, and digital literacy.
During the event, Kabogo launched two major initiatives: the Emerging Trends & Private Sector Opportunities in the Digital Work Ecosystem Report 2025 and the National Digital Literacy Skills Curriculum. The curriculum aims to standardize digital skills training and ensure Kenyans are well-equipped for the technology-driven job market.
Also present at the summit were Principal Secretaries Eng. John Tanui (ICT and the Digital Economy) and Stephen Isaboke (Broadcasting and Telecommunications), ICT Authority Board Chair Hon. Lily Ngok, ICTA CEO Stanley Kamanguya, and Members of Parliament including Hon. John Kiarie and Hon. Erastus Kivasu.
Kamanguya emphasized the need to regularly assess progress towards the Nairobi Declaration and address existing challenges to achieve its goals.
The Connected Africa Summit 2025, organized by the ICT Authority in partnership with various stakeholders, continues to be a crucial platform for shaping the continent’s digital future.