On 16^th January 2025, KEPSA presented on investment opportunities for Japanese investors in the Digital Transformation and Innovation Ecosystems in Kenya, during the Kenya-Japan Business Forum. The forum was attended by the acting Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, H.E Salim Mvurya, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Japan, Mr. Fuji Hisayuki, Principal Secretaries Mr. Abubakar Hassan and Dr. Korir Sing'oei of State Departments of Investments and Foreign Affairs respectively among other dignitaries. The forum sought to foster trade, investment, and partnerships to strengthen Kenya-Japan bilateral relations in anticipation of the upcoming #Expo2025 in Osaka, Japan, which will begin in April 2025.

Japanese investors are poised to play a pivotal role in accelerating Kenya’s digital transformation and innovation ecosystems. With Kenya recognized as Africa’s "Silicon Savannah," the country offers dynamic opportunities for strategic partnerships in technology-driven sectors as highlighted by Mr. Davis Waithaka, the Chairperson of the Digital Skills and Values Subsector, KEPSA ICT Sector Board. In his presentation, Mr. Waithaka underscored the key investment areas to include:

• Digital Infrastructure: Expansion of broadband networks and 5G rollouts present avenues for investments in data centers and cloud services.
• Innovation Hubs: Collaboration with over 50 tech hubs such as iHub and NaiLab to nurture startups and co-develop cutting-edge solutions.
• Emerging Technologies: Scaling AI, blockchain, and IoT applications in finance, agriculture, education, and healthcare for greater societal impact.
• Capacity Building: Supporting youth-focused digital skills programs to enhance tech talent and innovation leadership.

Kenya’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive policies make it a gateway for technology investments in East Africa. Partnerships with Japan will foster the co-creation of solutions, drive sustainable growth, and shape the continent's digital future.