ICT CS Kabogo unveils continental cybersecurity summit

ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo officially unveiled the Connected Africa Summit 2025 at a partners' breakfast meeting in Nairobi on Friday.

Organized by the ICT Ministry, the summit is scheduled for May 26th to 29th in Diani, Kenya.

It will bring together policy leaders, technology pioneers, investors, and industry captains. Discussions will focus on how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and climate technologies can accelerate transformation across sectors such as education, healthcare, manufacturing, and sustainability.

CS Kabogo noted that the summit will provide a platform for cross-border collaborations and a unified approach for Africa to implement digital transformation.

“This year, we convene the Connected Africa Summit under the theme: ‘The Digital Journey: Vision to Reality.’ The theme challenges us to move beyond ambition and turn our shared digital vision into tangible action and impact,” he said.

“Over the past years, Africa has made significant strides in digital connectivity, financial inclusion, and innovation. However, to unlock the full potential of our digital economy, we must ensure that technology adoption translates into sustainable development, economic opportunities, and social progress for all.”

He added that Africa should strive to leverage technology for economic development and job creation, bridge the digital divide by enhancing digital infrastructure and skills training, strengthen cybersecurity frameworks, and foster an enabling environment for fintech and digital trade.”

John Tanui, Principal Secretary for ICT and Digital Economy, highlighted the continuity of last year's discussions: “Reflecting on last year's Connected Africa Summit, which brought together 40 ministers from over 40 countries, we remain committed to tracking our Nairobi Declaration and advancing key areas like connectivity and emerging technologies.”

Africa has the world's youngest population, with a significant portion under 30, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the continent’s development.

The summit takes place as Africa looks for ways to leverage technology to drive economic growth, create jobs for its young population, and enhance service delivery through emerging technologies.