By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
The American Chamber of
Commerce Kenya (AmCham Kenya) has engaged government officials and data
protection authorities to strengthen collaboration on Kenya’s digital
transformation agenda and position the country as a leading hub for technology
innovation and investment in East Africa.
The engagement, led by
AmCham Kenya Chief Executive Officer Paul Muthaura alongside representatives
from the United States Embassy in Kenya, brought together officials from the
Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MOICDE) and the
Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC).
The discussions with the
ministry, led by Principal Secretary Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, and the ODPC,
led by Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait and Deputy Data Commissioner John
Walubengo, focused on strengthening public-private partnerships, advancing
digital skills development and creating an enabling environment for technology
investment.
AmCham Kenya said American
technology companies continue to play a significant role in Kenya’s digital
transformation through investments in critical infrastructure, including subsea
connectivity, as well as large-scale digital skills initiatives.
The chamber noted that six
of its member companies have collectively trained more than one million Kenyans
and remain committed to supporting the government’s target of equipping 20
million citizens with digital skills by 2030.
The meeting also explored
opportunities to expand research and innovation partnerships through
initiatives involving global technology companies, including startup
acceleration programmes, research centres, cybersecurity initiatives and
artificial intelligence development projects.
A major focus of the
discussions was Kenya’s Draft Data Governance Policy 2026, with AmCham Kenya
presenting industry perspectives on developing a framework that supports
innovation, protects data and enhances the country’s competitiveness in the
global digital economy.
AmCham Kenya said the
engagement reflects a shared commitment between government, industry and
international partners to accelerate digital innovation, attract investment and
strengthen Kenya’s position as a technology leader in the region.
