KENYA projects its partnership with Google to drive $4.2bn in economic gains through extensive digital transformation initiatives. Speaking at a recent meeting with Google officials, led by Matt Brittin, President of Google Africa and the Middle East, Margaret Ndung’u, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and Digital Economy, highlighted the ambitious programme’s scope, from AI and coding in schools to expanded digital infrastructure.
Kenya’s push for tech education is at the heart of the partnership. Among the initiatives announced by President William Ruto in 2023 is Google’s pledge to introduce coding and artificial intelligence (AI) literacy to primary schools. The goal is to train over 7,000 teachers and reach 4 million students with essential digital skills needed in today’s economy.
‘Equally important is the digital transformation of government services,’ noted Ndung’u, emphasising the $5 million grant from Google to connect 90 government institutions, including hospitals and technical training centres, through last-mile connectivity. The funds will help install essential equipment and expand Kenya’s national fibre optic network, especially benefitting public healthcare and vocational training facilities.
These tech initiatives are expected to create AI-driven job opportunities and contribute approximately $2.4bn to Kenya’s GDP, according to Ndung’u. She expressed gratitude for Google’s role in bolstering Kenya’s digital infrastructure, supporting local innovation, and positioning the country as a leader in digital advancement.
‘Together, we are not just building capacity but positioning Kenya as a global leader in the digital space,’ Ndung’u stated, recognising Google’s commitment to Kenya’s growth through this transformative digital collaboration.
