Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke on Monday, September 21 delivered keynote remarks at the World Bank’s “Kenya’s Digital and AI Dividend: From Promise to Practical Action” forum, highlighting the need to turn Kenya’s strong digital foundations into tangible economic and social benefits.

PS Isaboke took part in the discussions that interrogated how AI and e-commerce are reshaping jobs, businesses and public services, and the importance of investing in digital infrastructure, skills, trusted data, responsible AI and interoperable digital systems.

The Government has established a strong policy and institutional foundation for the digital economy. This includes the National ICT Policy 2019, Digital Economy Blueprint 2019, Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032, Data Protection Act 2019, National Cybersecurity Strategy 2022–2027, National E-Commerce Strategy 2023, and National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030.

The National AI Strategy provides a framework around three critical pillars: AI digital infrastructure; data ecosystems and governance; and AI research, innovation and commercialisation.

“Kenya has built a strong foundation through expanding connectivity, digital public services, mobile payments and our National AI Strategy 2025–2030,” PS Isaboke said. “Our next task is to translate these investments into better jobs, more productive enterprises, improved public services and new opportunities for our people.”

According to PS Isaboke, the digital and AI dividend will be realised when technology moves beyond potential and delivers practical value to Kenyans, from farmers and MSMEs to young people, teachers and public servants.

He was accompanied by the Secretary, ICT Infrastructure, Washington Okoth and Thomas Bwaley, the Director for Programmes & Standards at the ICT Authority. Also present was Mehnaz Safavian,World Bank Group Digital and AI Practice Manager for Eastern and Southern Africa World Bank Africa