By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Kenya is set to deepen its
collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to accelerate digital skills
development, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and connectivity as the
country advances its digital transformation agenda.
The Cabinet Secretary for
Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau, made
this known following an official visit to AWS offices in Nairobi, where he held
discussions with the company on expanding cooperation in key areas of Kenya’s
digital economy.
A major focus of the
discussions was the expansion of the AWS re/Start programme, which has trained
thousands of Kenyans in cloud computing. According to Kabogo, the programme has
recorded a 45 percent placement rate among trained participants in Kenya.
The government and AWS
agreed on the need to scale digital skills programmes by leveraging existing
infrastructure, including Jitume Digital Hubs, while strengthening partnerships
with universities and other tertiary institutions.
Kabogo said the expansion of
training must be accompanied by a strong focus on quality and practical,
industry-relevant skills to ensure that young people are equipped to meet the
changing requirements of the digital economy.
The partnership is also
expected to support Kenya’s wider digital transformation efforts in areas
including e-government, artificial intelligence and connectivity, with
particular attention to underserved communities.
The collaboration forms part
of Kenya’s efforts to build a more inclusive digital economy by expanding
access to digital infrastructure, skills and emerging technologies.
The meeting was attended by
Robin Njiru, Head of Public Sector, Sub-Saharan Africa at AWS; John Tanui,
Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy; Paul Okwiri, Chief
Executive Officer of Konza Technopolis; and other senior government officials.
The government said
continued engagement with AWS will be important in strengthening Kenya’s
digital capabilities and positioning the country as a competitive hub for
technology, innovation and digital services.
