NAIROBI — Kenya is moving to strengthen its digital infrastructure and bridge the technology gap through new public-private partnerships with global tech firm Huawei.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Monday met with Huawei Kenya’s CEO Gao Fei and senior executives to explore areas of collaboration aimed at fast-tracking digital inclusion, job creation, and smarter government services.
“Partnerships like these are critical to creating jobs, narrowing the digital divide, and improving access to public services,” Kindiki said during the high-level meeting in Nairobi.
The talks focused on expanding the reach of Kenya’s digital ecosystem through projects anchored on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and rural internet access. The discussions also emphasized the importance of local talent development and building tech-ready infrastructure.
Huawei briefed the government on its ongoing work with over 50 local institutions under the Huawei ICT Academy, which trains Kenyan students and instructors in advanced digital skills. Areas of focus include AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who attended the meeting, pointed out the urgency of investing in digital skills to equip the next generation of professionals.
“Huawei is helping prepare our youth to compete in a fast-changing tech environment. Their support through the ICT Academy is building a strong pipeline of digital talent,” Wetang’ula said.
The discussions built on the Kenya AI & Cloud Pioneer Initiative, launched in May 2025. The initiative seeks to set up AI-capable data centers and cloud platforms while modernizing digital service delivery in the public sector.
Huawei’s involvement in strengthening Kenya’s rural connectivity and upgrading its national power grid also came into focus. The projects support the government’s goal of achieving universal access to digital tools and building tech-integrated public infrastructure.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with trusted global partners to ensure digital progress is inclusive and sustainable.
“We will continue to support technology-driven partnerships that bring real impact to citizens, especially in underserved regions. Innovation must reach every household,” he said.
Huawei Kenya pledged continued investment in expanding digital access, supporting infrastructure growth, and helping more Kenyans gain employable tech skills.
Present at the meeting were Khadija Mohammed, Adam Lane, Yuta Leng, and Mohammed Shalle, who represented Huawei’s public affairs and legal teams, along with officials from the Office of the Speaker.
The partnership is expected to help Kenya position itself as a regional technology leader and accelerate its path toward a knowledge-based economy.
