The Chinese multinational Huawei is playing a pivotal role in enhancing the technical capacity of Kenyan government officers, empowering them with essential ICT skills to safeguard the nation’s digital infrastructure and foster innovation. Through a comprehensive training programme, Huawei is equipping public servants with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of a digital economy while improving governance and service delivery.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s ambition to transition into a digital economy, expanding access to digital tools, promoting literacy, and enhancing public service efficiency. The partnership was formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kenyan government, through the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4), and Huawei Technologies. The MoU outlines a structured framework to bolster cybersecurity measures, prevent cybercrime, and build a robust digital ecosystem.
Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration. Speaking during the graduation of civil servants who completed advanced cybersecurity training, he highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Kenya’s developmental goals. “This program, delivered in collaboration with Huawei Technologies Kenya, aligns with the Computer and Cybercrimes Regulations of 2024 and underscores our commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s digital infrastructure,” Dr. Omollo stated.
Huawei Kenya’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Steven Zhang, reiterated the company’s commitment to capacity building, noting the programme’s focus on equipping civil servants with advanced skills in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. “Together, we are fostering cyber defense capabilities to secure Kenya’s digital transformation journey,” Zhang said, adding that the initiative reflects Huawei’s dedication to knowledge sharing and resilience against cyber threats.
Kenya’s partnership with Huawei dates back to 2022 when the company signed a landmark public-private agreement to train 20,000 public sector employees, including 12,500 civil servants, over three years. The training, covering technical and non-technical aspects of ICT, aims to strengthen public service delivery and digital governance.
Dr. Omollo underscored the urgency of such efforts, citing the growing risks associated with cybercrime as Kenya’s digital economy expands. The partnership represents a significant step toward achieving a secure, knowledge-based economy, instilling global best practices, and ensuring national resilience against cyber threats.
By fostering these skills, Huawei is not only aiding Kenya’s digital ambitions but also ensuring that public servants are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the modern digital era.
