By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
Kenya
has reinforced its commitment to advancing digital sovereignty through
international cooperation following high-level discussions at the 15th
Connected Africa Summit in Nairobi.
Kenya’s
Special Envoy on Technology, Ambassador Philip Thigo, held talks with Deemah
AlYahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO),
focusing on strengthening collaboration to support an inclusive and sustainable
global digital economy.
The
meeting emphasised the evolving concept of digital sovereignty, with both
parties highlighting the need for countries to build capabilities that enable
them to engage globally on fair, trusted, and interoperable terms, rather than
adopting isolated approaches.
Discussions
also explored opportunities for deeper collaboration between Kenya, the African
region, and the DCO in addressing challenges posed by geopolitical
fragmentation and accelerating digital transformation.
Ambassador
Thigo acknowledged the DCO’s role in promoting a people-centred digital economy
and advancing cooperation among member states to drive innovation and digital
inclusion.
Stakeholders
noted that Africa’s digital transformation is gaining momentum, with increasing
focus on translating policy ambition into practical capacity and long-term
impact through partnerships.
The
engagement forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Africa’s position in the
global digital landscape while ensuring that digital development remains
inclusive, resilient, and aligned with international standards.
