MPs Urge ICT Ministry to Expedite Finalization of Digital Hub Guidelines

Members of Parliament from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) Committee have raised concerns over delays in the finalization of policy guidelines critical for the successful rollout of digital hubs across Kenya. The project, spearheaded by President William Ruto, aims to establish 1,450 Digital Hubs, targeting each ward in the country. However, procedural gaps and delayed finalization of these guidelines threaten to derail the project.

The concerns were voiced during a meeting between the NG-CDF Committee, led by Eldama Ravine MP and Committee Chairperson Musa Sirma, and officials from the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy. This meeting was a follow-up to an earlier engagement in July, where key legal and logistical gaps in the draft guidelines were identified.

Significance of the Digital Hubs Project

The Digital Hubs project is a significant initiative in Kenya’s journey toward embracing the digital economy. These hubs are expected to provide essential digital services and resources, enabling communities across the country to tap into the digital revolution. For many young people in rural and underserved areas, these hubs represent a critical opportunity to access digital tools, training, and resources that can enhance their employability and entrepreneurial prospects.

However, the successful implementation of these hubs hinges on the establishment of clear and actionable guidelines. These guidelines will outline the operational framework, including the allocation and utilization of funds from the NG-CDF. According to Section 25 (2) (a) of the NG-CDF Act, constituencies are permitted to allocate up to 3% of their total allocation to cover utility expenses and maintenance of the digital hubs. Without the finalized guidelines, the release and effective utilization of these funds remain in limbo.

Challenges Identified

During the meeting, Sirma emphasized the urgency of finalizing the guidelines, noting that time was running out. “Time is not on our side, as our young people are waiting in the constituencies to get down to work, and these pending issues need to be finalized,” he stated.

The MPs highlighted the importance of resolving these procedural gaps promptly to avoid stalling the project. They noted that the guidelines were crucial not only for the financial aspect of the project but also for addressing infrastructural and technical challenges observed during fact-finding visits to existing constituency digital hubs earlier this year. These challenges, which include inadequate infrastructure and technical support, could be swiftly addressed through NG-CDF once the guidelines are in place.

Ministry’s Role and Expectations

The Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy has a pivotal role in ensuring the guidelines are comprehensive and actionable. The MPs urged the Ministry to expedite the process, stressing that the finalization of these guidelines would allow for their tabling and adoption by the National Assembly. This step is critical to unlocking the NG-CDF resources necessary for the rollout and maintenance of the digital hubs.

The meeting also saw the participation of NG-CDF Board Members, led by Chairperson Hon. Olago Aluoch, who echoed the MPs’ concerns. The Board’s involvement underscores the collaborative effort required between the Ministry, the NG-CDF Board, and Parliament to ensure the successful rollout of the digital hubs.

Conclusion

The delay in finalizing the guidelines for the digital hubs project poses a significant risk to one of Kenya’s most ambitious digital economy initiatives. With the clock ticking, MPs are calling for swift action to ensure that the project can proceed without further delays. The finalization of these guidelines is not just a procedural necessity; it is a critical step toward empowering communities across Kenya through digital access and opportunities.

As the country continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, the successful implementation of projects like the Digital Hubs will be essential in bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive economic growth. The onus is now on the Ministry of ICT and the NG-CDF Board to deliver on this promise and ensure that Kenya’s digital future is inclusive and equitable.