With the confirmation by the IEBC that William Ruto will be the next president of Kenya, it is time we look at the promises his party made during the campaign period. These are some of the promises made around the tech and digital ecosystem in the party’s manifesto.
Universal Broadband availability – UDA promised to increase and fast-track broadband connectivity across Kenya within five years. Key plan is to have over 100,000 Km of national fiber optic connectivity network. Kenya already has good connectivity but there is still more to be done to connect those in rural areas.
Digitize government critical processes – The party also promised to enhance government service delivery through the digitization and automation of key government processes. The promise is to ensure 80% of government services will be available online. No clear details have been outlined but we should know more in the coming weeks and months.
Software for export – There are also plans to establish Africa Regional Hub and promote development of software for export. With the good talent available locally, this will expose Kenyan developers to the global market and give them an opportunity to earn more.
Reduce call and data rates in Kenya – This might be the best news for the youth as the party promised to reduce both call and data rates. The main reason for this is to allow the youth, to use online platforms for entertainment, information and business. Lower data rates means that more people can access internet services and platforms for learning, work and entertainment.
Establish Digital Master Plan- The implementation of the Digital Master Plan will adhere to environmental agreements in which Kenya is a signatory.
Establish a Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology Policy that will ensure a whole of government approach to technological development and use and build necessary capacities across government.
Strengthen Konza Technopolis – The administration will strengthen Konza Technopolis to bring together industry, academic institutions and other innovators to co-invest in emerging technologies to create high-quality jobs that leverage on artificial intelligence, robotics and other technologies and thus enhance Kenya’s regional and global competitiveness.
Electric vehicle charging infrastructure – The administration will roll out electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in all urban areas and along the highways. Kenya Power has already expressed plans to start testing these charging stations in Nairobi and Nakuru. The administration will also provide financial and tax incentives for public service vehicles and commercial transporters to convert to electric vehicles; leverage the financial support that will be provided to the boda boda sector to develop the nascent electrical vehicle (EV) and motorcycle assembly industry.
Read: Roam Electric Unveils new electric motorcycles in Western Kenya in Partnership with Kengra Logistics
