By Issa Hussein - Reporter
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Finland, June 11, 2026 - Kenya has intensified efforts to position itself as a regional digital hub following high-level talks between Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo and Nokia executives in Espoo, Finland.
The discussions, held at Nokia's Global Executive Experience Center, focused on strengthening Kenya's digital infrastructure and preparing the country for the next wave of technological transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
Kabogo said the talks were aligned with President William Ruto's vision of accelerating digital transformation and attracting technology investments that support economic growth and innovation.
"Nokia has been a partner to Kenya for over 20 years, and that long-term commitment matters," Kabogo said, noting that trust and stability would be key factors in determining which countries benefit from the rapidly evolving AI economy.
According to the CS, the world is entering what industry experts describe as an "AI supercycle", with global data traffic expected to double over the next eight years, largely driven by artificial intelligence applications and services.
He warned that countries that fail to invest in AI-ready infrastructure, including data centres, fibre-optic networks and advanced telecommunications systems, risk falling behind in the digital economy.
"Countries that fail to build the right AI-ready infrastructure risk being left behind. Kenya intends to be among those who lead," Kabogo said.
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The CS highlighted ongoing government investments in digital connectivity, data centres and technology infrastructure, saying they are already positioning Kenya as a gateway for digital innovation in Africa.
He added that partnerships with global technology firms such as Nokia are critical in helping the country translate its digital ambitions into tangible outcomes.
The engagement comes as President Ruto's administration continues to promote Kenya as an attractive destination for technology investment, innovation and digital services under its broader economic transformation agenda.
Nokia, one of the world's leading telecommunications and networking companies, has maintained a presence in Kenya for more than two decades, supporting the development of the country's telecommunications infrastructure and digital ecosystem.
The discussions in Finland are expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration in areas such as next-generation connectivity, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure development and innovation, further strengthening Kenya's position as a technology and investment hub in Africa.