Diaspora Affairs Engagement

KENYA DIASPORA-THE PUSH BEHIND KENYA’S TECH ADVANCEMENT, PS NJOGU

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 306

---

Wednesday, July 16, 2025(NAIROBI)__The Kenyan diaspora continues to be a driving force in propelling the country's technological growth and enhancing Kenya’s global profile in tech adoption.

Speaking at the launch of “This is Digital,” a tech and business solutions company, which coincided with AI Appreciation Day in Nairobi, Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline K. Njogu,CBS, highlighted the pivotal role the Kenyan diaspora has played in advancing the country’s technology landscape—particularly in artificial intelligence—since the advent of the internet and Internet of Things (IoT).

PS Njogu emphasized that technology, especially AI, will play a fundamental role in serving Kenyans abroad. From diaspora mapping to big data analysis, these innovations, she said, will transform how services are delivered and how opportunities match Kenyan talent with global demand. She described Kenya, as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah,” as a hub for top tech talent on the continent, a reputation that has significantly raised the nation’s international standing.

Outlining the Government’s holistic approach, the PS detailed efforts under the creative and digital economy pillar, citing extensive technology infrastructure investments such as thousands of kilometers of new fiber optic cabling.

She remarked that with improved infrastructure, Government aims to support online job opportunities -kazi mtandaoni) as a key strategy to address unemployment. Additional strategies include local jobs creation -kazi kwa ground) and diaspora jobs-kazi majuu, with the State Department for Diaspora Affairs connecting skilled Kenyans to international opportunities through its Diaspora Placement Agency (DPA).

PS Njogu also pointed to Government initiative under The Plan, that has led to the on boarding of thousands of essential services online, including the shift to an e-Government Procurement System, which both streamlines government transactions and enables the diaspora to participate in the supply of goods and services.

She further affirmed the State Department’s commitment to engaging Kenyans in the global tech sector to invest, share expertise, and mentor young innovators, promoting knowledge and skills transfer. This, she said, will support “brain circulation” rather than the cliche “brain drain."

At the same forum, This Is Digital co-founder, Ms. Grace Murugi said that AI is the future as she called for its adoption and usage in different sectors including agriculture, research and development, among others.

The event was attended by tech industry leaders, Government and non-state actors, and AI pioneers and enthusiasts.