Nakuru is set to host this year’s edition of the Association of Computing Practitioners Kenya (ACPK) conference.
The three-day event aims to provide unparalleled industry insights, explore emerging trends, and accelerate growth within the sector.
The occasion is expected to bring together corporations, agencies, government entities, media, and technology companies, both local and international, to deliberate on the rise of digital technologies and their societal impact.
The County Chief Officer for ICT, e-Governance, and Public Communication Catherine Changwony, said the conference promises attendees an expanded knowledge base and pertinent insights into the positive impacts of digitization and technology on the economy and livelihoods.
“It is a great opportunity for computing professionals and practitioners to discuss emerging issues in Information Communication Technology (ICT) technology and innovations, and this resonates strongly with Governor Susan Kihika’s administration commitment to empowering youth and growing the digital economy,” stated Changwony.
The Chief Officer pointed out that scheduled topics for discussion encompass pivotal themes such as the evolution of marketing in the digital world, rethinking digital lending, fintech pioneers and challengers, digital platform economy, implementing cyber security for impact and keeping up with innovation, among others.
“The adoption of digital technologies in Kenya is contributing significantly to greater access to information, education, healthcare, and various other services, all of which are enhancing lives and livelihoods,” she added.
The Chief Officer went on, “This event is taking place amid the growing demand for digital skills, as underscored by a recent report by the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE).
The report indicates Information Communication Technology (ICT) as the most sought-after skill, accounting for 28.4 percent of the major skills demanded by Kenyan employers.”
Changwony highlighted the county’s milestones, including training over 3,000 youths in online work across agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and freelancing. The county, she disclosed, has also established 8 ICT hubs across sub-counties to equip young people with the skills and tools needed to thrive in the global digital space.
“The County Government of Nakuru remains committed to creating sustainable opportunities for youth in the evolving gig economy and also continues to chart the future of work and foster a thriving, innovation-driven community,” elaborated the official.
Despite Kenya’s leadership in digital transformation on the continent, the Chief Officer expressed regret that low digital literacy levels, especially in rural areas, hinder inclusive digital transformation and participation in the digital economy.
According to Accenture’s Africa GDP Forecast, Kenya leads in digital transformation, with its digital economy contributing 7.7 per cent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), followed by Morocco and South Africa at 6.82 per cent and 6.51 per cent, respectively.
The report further predicts that by 2025, Kenya’s digital economy will contribute about Sh1.4 trillion, equivalent to 9.24 per cent of the GDP.
By Jane Ngugi
