Digital Economy to Hit 9.24% of GDP by 2024
The Ministry’s partnerships and initiatives demonstrate a concerted effort to harness the potential of Kenya’s young population.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports,Arts and Creative Economy Kipchumba Murkomen. Photo/Kipchumba Murkomen.
The digital economy in Kenya is set to contribute a significant 9.24% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by next year, according to projections.
With the potential to transform youth employment, the Ministry of Sports, Arts, and Creative Economy is ramping up initiatives to equip young people with the skills required to thrive in this sector.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Arts, and Creative Economy, Kipchumba Murkomen, underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing youth talent during a meeting with Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga.
The Senator is spearheading efforts to complete and operationalize the Siaya Community Digital Hub, a project he initiated during his tenure as a Member of the National Assembly.
The digital hub is expected to admit its first cohort of trainees this December.
“The hub is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in empowering our youth. By enhancing digital literacy and providing a platform for skill development, we are creating opportunities for young people to access the burgeoning digital economy,” said Murkomen.
Partnerships between the Ministry and institutions like the Kenya Film Commission and the Youth Enterprise Development Fund are central to achieving this vision. Both organizations are running skills training and mentorship programs nationwide.
Murkomen emphasized that initiatives like the Siaya Community Digital Hub will extend the reach of such programs, ensuring more youth benefit from the government’s efforts.
The focus on youth skilling aligns with Kenya’s broader vision of leveraging technology for economic growth. As digital transformation accelerates globally, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s tech revolution.
The skilling programs are designed to equip participants with expertise in areas such as digital marketing, content creation, software development, and other tech-related fields, ensuring they remain competitive in the global job market.
“The youth are the backbone of our digital economy. By investing in their skills, we are not just preparing them for jobs of the future but also laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth,” Murkomen added.
The Ministry’s partnerships and initiatives demonstrate a concerted effort to harness the potential of Kenya’s young population.
With the Siaya hub and similar projects across the country, the government is making strides toward inclusive growth, bridging the digital divide, and empowering the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.
As the first cohort begins training at the Siaya Community Digital Hub, it marks a critical step in Kenya’s journey toward a more digitally inclusive future.
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