President William Ruto has directed all Members of Parliament to ensure the establishment of at least one Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) hub in every ward across Kenya.
Speaking in Kakamega County during the launch of the Nyota programme, Ruto said the initiative is part of his government’s commitment to expanding digital infrastructure, creating employment for young people, and promoting innovation and e-commerce.
He noted that the government is investing heavily in technology to ensure that every young Kenyan can access digital opportunities regardless of their location.
“We have asked every Member of Parliament to build at least one ICT hub in every ward because we want to equip those hubs and enable between 200 and 300 young people to access digital jobs, e-commerce, and other online opportunities,” Ruto said.
To support this vision, the government is rolling out 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable to boost internet connectivity nationwide. So far, 30,000 kilometers have already been completed, bridging the digital divide between rural and urban areas.
The ICT hubs will be equipped with computers, reliable internet, and workspaces to support digital freelancing, innovation, software development, and e-commerce. Each hub will accommodate up to 300 youth, providing training and access to global online job platforms.
This directive aligns with the Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy pillar under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). It aims to make Kenya a regional digital powerhouse while addressing youth unemployment.
Members of Parliament will collaborate with the Ministries of ICT and Youth Affairs and the private sector to implement the plan, using resources from the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Ruto emphasized that digital empowerment is key to inclusive growth, adding:
