Kenya explores deeper collaboration with ICANN to strengthen digital ecosystem

The Principal Secretary of the State Department for ICT and Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, has held discussions with a high-level delegation from the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) to explore avenues for enhancing Kenya's digital infrastructure and regional internet governance. 

The ICANN team, led by Vice President for Global Stakeholder Engagement in Africa, Mr. Pierre Dandjinou, included senior directors overseeing critical digital initiatives including new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), public responsibility programs, and stakeholder engagement across East and Southern Africa. 

During the courtesy call at the State Department headquarters, PS Tanui shared Kenya's latest developments in ICT and digital economy transformation, highlighting the country's progress in building a secure and inclusive digital landscape. The meeting served as a platform to identify new areas of partnership that align with Kenya's digital transformation agenda and ICANN's mission of ensuring a stable, secure, and unified global internet. 

Both parties recognized the growing importance of collaborative efforts in addressing emerging digital challenges and opportunities across the African continent. The discussions touched on capacity building, internet infrastructure development, and policy frameworks that support innovation while protecting users in the digital space. 

As Kenya continues to implement its Digital Economy Blueprint, partnerships with organizations like ICANN will play a crucial role in realizing the country's vision of becoming a full-fledged digital economy and a regional ICT hub.

By: Kanto Kai Okanta