Kabogo: Africa must harness own resources to drive digital growth

Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has urged African countries to tap into their own wealth of resources to power digital transformation and reduce reliance on external support.

Speaking during the official opening of the ITU Regional Development Forum for Africa (ITURDF-AFR) in Nairobi, Kabogo said the continent has what it takes to drive sustainable and independent growth in the ICT sector, if it leverages its economic strength, cultural diversity, natural wealth, and human capital.

“This is the appropriate time for Africa to harness its economic, natural, cultural, and human resources to ensure sustainable and independent growth in the ICT sector and beyond,” said Kabogo.

The high-level meeting hosted by the Communications Authority of Kenya in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), brings together ICT ministers, regulators, and tech leaders from across Africa to discuss the region’s digital development agenda.

Kabogo said Africa must approach digital transformation not as a project driven from abroad but as a homegrown priority built on the continent’s own assets and leadership.

He also called for stronger regional collaboration and unified policies to help Africa close the digital divide and compete globally.

“Time is nigh for Africa to leverage on its regional integration, strategic leadership, and governance for advanced digital transformation and address the digital divide,” he said.

ICT and Digital Economy PS John Tanui and Communications Authority Director General David Mugonyi are among government officials attending the meeting.

Also present are ICT ministers from Nigeria, Ghana, Chad, and Lesotho, as well as representatives from continental bodies such as the African Telecommunication Union and the East African Communications Organisations.