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Kindiki praises digitalisation as govt’s transformation agenda
08th October, 2025 12:03 AM
Caption:Kindiki praises digitalisation as govt’s transformation agenda. VIDEO/K24TV Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has opened the 18th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Business Forum at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, saying Kenya will continue leveraging technology to enhance trade, attract investment, and create jobs across the continent.
Speaking on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Kindiki said Kenya’s leadership of the 21-member COMESA bloc symbolises a new chapter in regional integration anchored on digital transformation and inclusive industrial growth.
Also watch: Kindiki lectures Public Service CS Ruku and warns him against complaining
“Kenya will leverage this role to champion a new era of integration that uses digitalisation to deepen value chains for sustainable and inclusive growth,” Kindiki said.
“This theme resonates with our national transformation agenda focused on boosting intra-regional trade and strengthening economic integration.”
Also watch: Ruto and Duale defend digital shift in public procurement.
Kenya to push digital-first trade growth
The Deputy President noted that the country’s digital-first approach aligns with the Kenya Kwanza government’s broader vision to modernise systems, reduce bureaucracy, and empower small businesses.
He said digital platforms would help fast-track trade facilitation, lower transaction costs, and increase regional competitiveness.
“Digital transformation creates a more dynamic business environment, allowing small and medium enterprises to scale beyond borders,” Kindiki explained.
He said Kenya would prioritise the rollout of Electronic Certificates of Origin and smart border systems to streamline customs procedures and enhance efficiency in cross-border trade.
Kindiki added that public–private partnerships will play a central role in realising the government’s economic agenda, urging both sectors to collaborate in promoting innovation and productivity.
“The public and private sectors must work together to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, innovate, and expand,” he said.
Also watch: Governors’ fault rushed e-procurement system.
Value addition and innovation for growth
Kindiki also highlighted the importance of value addition and innovation in achieving economic sustainability.
He said the government is investing in infrastructure, logistics, and technology to make exports more competitive and environmentally sustainable.
“Value addition offers the best opportunity for higher returns and deeper industrial advancement,” Kindiki stated.
The COMESA forum runs ahead of the Heads of State Summit set for October 9, 2025, in Nairobi.
