Kenya has called on African nations to unlock the vast potential of the digital economy, emphasizing its capability to create jobs and improve service delivery across the continent.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, speaking at the 41st International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) World Conference in Nairobi, stressed the importance of leveraging Africa’s demographic dividend and implementing smart policies for a digital and resilient future.
“Our continent has the potential to become a global technology powerhouse by tapping into the innovations and entrepreneurial spirit of the youth,” Gachagua stated, highlighting the role of Africa’s youth in driving the shift towards a knowledge-based economy.
The IASP conference, running from September 24 to 27 under the theme “Demographics, Entrepreneurship and Technology: Defining the Frontiers of Future Economies,” has gathered over 1,500 delegates from 50 countries, including policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and scholars. The summit aims to discuss how emerging technologies can transform African economies, support climate action, and help achieve the United Nations 2030 goals.
Kenya, the second African country to host this global summit, is focusing on building a robust innovation ecosystem and enhancing digital skills among the youth. The summit also emphasizes strengthening the fintech sector.
Gachagua reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting Africa’s digital transformation for inclusive growth, highlighting ongoing initiatives such as the installation of 100,000 km of fibre optic cable and the establishment of digital hubs in 1,400 wards across the country. He urged other African nations to accelerate the adoption of technologies like AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things to reshape economies and boost workplace productivity.
“With artificial intelligence estimated to contribute 15.7 trillion U.S. dollars to the global economy by 2030, Kenya and Africa must have a bite of this technology,” he added.
IASP CEO Ebba Lund also emphasized that harnessing digital tools could help African countries leapfrog into a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future.
