Microsoft will engage the National Government, Ministries, Departments and Agencies through the ICT Authority in a mutually beneficial framework that will be finalized in February 2024, according to the agreement signed on Wednesday.
The ICT Authority is responsible for streamlining and simplifying the management of all ICT functions in government. The agreement aims to improve Kenya's digital transformation by helping the government meet the objectives of the Kenya Digital Economy Plan.
This includes using technology and improving efficiency in providing electronic public administration services to citizens.
“I would like to thank Microsoft for this opportunity, which came at the right time. We anticipate that, at the end of this relationship, we will have increased our cybersecurity awareness, our digital capabilities and developed important technical areas for a prosperous digital economy”, according to Stanley Kamanguya, Executive Director of the ICT Authority.
Kamanguya stated that the relationship will allow the Authority to contribute to the development of digital skills, among other ICT pillars, ensuring a healthy digital economy.
Kunle Awosika, Microsoft Public Sector Director in Africa, said Microsoft was pleased to participate in the relationship, which will seek to provide an open and enabling environment for government departments to make decisions on technology and cloud platforms through the ICT Authority.
“Through the framework agreement that will be developed, we hope to ensure that this MoU becomes fruitful for the mutual benefits of our institutions,” he told journalists.
Phyllis Migwi, Country Manager for Microsoft in Kenya, also praised the agreement and said it will cooperate with authorities to support the government's digital economy strategy.
“With more than 20 years of experience in Kenya, we believe this partnership will reinforce the digital transformation agenda,” he said.
