Kenya and Finland deepen technology cooperation at political Consultations in Nairobi
Date: 2026-03-30
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
Kenya
and Finland have strengthened bilateral cooperation in digital technology and
innovation following high-level political consultations held in Nairobi,
bringing together government officials and technology stakeholders from both
countries.
The
consultations were led by Korir Sing’Oei, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s State
Department for Foreign Affairs, and Jukka Salovaara, Permanent State Secretary
at Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
Participants
discussed expanding collaboration across a broad technology spectrum, including
secure communications, advanced connectivity such as 5G and emerging 6G
technologies, artificial intelligence, data systems, and digital infrastructure
solutions. The talks also explored the application of these technologies in
public systems, infrastructure development, and service delivery.
Philip
Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology to the President of Kenya, noted that the
partnership is increasingly focused on building resilience, strengthening
digital capabilities, and supporting deployment of emerging technologies in
real-world contexts.
A
key area of focus was talent development, with both countries emphasizing the
need to equip local workforces with the skills required to design, implement,
and scale digital solutions. Discussions also highlighted the importance of
trusted digital systems, including cybersecurity, secure public infrastructure,
and information integrity, as critical foundations for sustainable digital
transformation.
The
engagement reflects a growing alignment between Kenya and Finland on leveraging
technology to drive innovation, economic growth, and resilient digital
ecosystems.
