Kenya ranked top in Africa in ICT regulation by UN agency

Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) headquarters, Nairobi. [Jenipher Wachie, Standard]

Kenya has topped Africa in the latest International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ranking of information and communication technology regulation, placing 20th globally out of 194 countries.

The United Nations specialised agency scored Kenya 93 points on its ICT Regulatory Tracker, up from 92 points in 2023.

Nigeria and South Africa followed with 92 and 88 points, respectively.

The ITU assessed countries based on the design of their regulatory authority, the scope of mandates, the regulatory regime, and the competition framework.

Kenya was placed in the highest category of advanced fourth generation (G4) regulation.

“This ranking is a clear testament to the excellent work that the Communications Authority has done in spearheading Kenya’s digital transformation and driving digital access for all. At 25, CA’s regulatory regime has attained maturity and gained global recognition,” said Steve Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications.

David Mugonyi, Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya, noted that the timing of the recognition coincides with the regulator's preparations to mark its silver jubilee next month.

The Communications Authority’s regulatory framework has enabled nationwide connectivity and improved consumer access to ICT services.

The ICT Regulatory Tracker is an evidence-based tool designed to guide policymakers and regulators in adapting to the rapidly changing digital environment.

Kenya’s ranking confirms its leadership in ICT regulation and innovation on the continent, ahead of regional rivals Nigeria and South Africa. Italy leads globally with a perfect score of 100 points.