Kenya's e-commerce strategy seeks to drive digital economy
Business
By
Francis Ontomwa
| Nov 20, 2024
Kenya is aligning its National E-Commerce Strategy with the East African e-commerce strategy, the AfCFTA Protocol on E-Commerce, and the UN Sustainable Development Goal 9 to drive growth in the digital economy.
Trade Principal Secretary Alfred K'Ombudo said that the government aims to adopt international best practices by enhancing digital infrastructure, improving online payment systems, and streamlining regulatory frameworks.
These efforts, he said are intended to facilitate seamless cross-border trade and bolster consumer protection.
In a speech read on his behalf by Timothy Were, ICT Director at the State Department for Trade, during the eCommerce Day East Africa at the Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi, on Monday, K'Ombudo noted that public-private sector partnerships will be pivotal in driving sustainable development, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods.
READ MORE
Kenya's 'night runner': How a rural ritual with links to witchcraft became an urban staple
Museveni: still seeking power after 40 years of rule
Phasing out 8-4-4: KCSE exams enter final stretch
Concern over growing inequality as 47,798 candidates score E
Great Wall tenants accuse management of alleged negligence
Parents worry as 8-4-4 learners face neglect amid CBE transition
State faces new IMF test as loan talks resume
Let's prioritise quality learning this year
Saudi Arabia sets executions record in 2025, putting 356 people to death
He revealed that Kenya's e-commerce revenues are projected to grow by over 6 per cent in 2023, with the sector expected to reach a volume of US$ 3.5 billion by 2027.
"These figures underscore Kenya's potential in e-commerce and its capacity to contribute to job creation and poverty reduction," said K'Ombudo.
Kenya is also developing a digital services export strategy to establish itself as a regional hub for digital innovation and digital services exports.
The eCommerce Day East Africa, organised by the eCommerce Institute, convenes public and private sector leaders to craft strategies for promoting digital commerce and accelerating the adoption of online channels by companies and entrepreneurs.
K'Ombudo highlighted key contributions from partners such as USAID, eTrade Alliance, and the eCommerce Institute in advancing Kenya's e-commerce ecosystem.
USAID-supported initiatives include the Google Hustle Academy E-Commerce Training, Brighter Monday Kenya's Ebiz Kwa Vijana program, and the eCommerce Day East Africa event. Other notable collaborators include GIZ, the Tony Blair Institute, and Microsoft Corporation.