Kenya’s Members of Parliament are intensifying scrutiny on the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy, citing delays in key projects, stalled legislation, and slow implementation that threaten the country’s digital development.
During a detailed oversight session, the National Assembly’s Committee on Communication, Information, and Innovation demanded clarity on how allocated funds are translating into tangible public benefits. Legislators questioned officials on stalled bills, including the ICT Authority Bill and the National Addressing Bill, which remain unfinished despite budget allocations.
“The sector’s budget must produce visible improvements in citizens’ lives. We will not allow inefficiency or neglect to hold back Kenya’s digital future,” said Kiarie, a committee member.
Concerns were also raised over agency performance, with slow-paced programs and suspended child online protection initiatives highlighting poor prioritization of resources. MPs urged improved coordination to resume fibre rollout, including the Konza Technopolis project set to restart on September 15.
ICT hubs across counties were noted to lack devices and internet access, leaving students and communities unable to utilize digital services. Connectivity in prisons was also flagged as inadequate, despite the growing reliance on virtual court hearings.
State corporations under the ministry, including Kenya Broadcasting Corporation and Posta Kenya, were reviewed, with MPs stressing that funding must result in measurable outcomes to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation.
