Kenya Deploys Microsoft’s Cloud Services In Public Sector

In a significant move towards advancing digital transformation in Kenya, the government has announced the adoption of Microsoft’s cloud-first strategy. The partnership, facilitated through the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Authority, aims to elevate public service delivery and streamline ICT functions within the government.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) seeks to enhance Kenya’s digital transformation and is centered around assisting the Kenyan Government in achieving its digital transformation strategy and objectives.

According to the agreement officially signed on Wednesday, Microsoft will collaborate with the National Government, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies under the ICT Authority. The framework for this collaboration is set to be finalized by February 2024.

The ICT Authority, responsible for rationalizing and streamlining ICT functions across the government, sees this partnership as a pivotal step in achieving the objectives outlined in the Kenyan Digital Economy Blueprint. The focus is on leveraging technology to enhance efficiencies in delivering e-government services to citizens.

Stanley Kamanguya, CEO of the ICT Authority, expressed gratitude to Microsoft, noting the opportune timing of the partnership. He anticipates that the collaboration will enhance cybersecurity awareness, digital capabilities, and critical technical areas essential for a flourishing digital economy.

Kamanguya highlighted that the partnership will enable the ICT Authority to contribute significantly to the development of digital skills and other key pillars of information and communication technology, ensuring the growth of a robust digital economy.

Kunle Awosika, Microsoft’s Head of Public Sector in Africa, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the commitment to providing an open and enabling environment for Government departments to make informed technology and cloud platform decisions through the ICT Authority.

“Through the framework agreement which will be developed, we look forward to ensuring that this MoU becomes fruitful for the mutual benefits of our institutions,” Awosika stated during the announcement.

Phyllis Migwi, Country Manager of Microsoft in Kenya, echoed the positive sentiments, affirming Microsoft’s dedication to collaborating with authorities to support the government’s digital economy strategy. With over 20 years of experience in Kenya, Migwi expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen the digital transformation agenda for the benefit of the country.

The aim of the MOU is to partner with the National Government, Ministries, Departments and Agencies through ICTA in a joint framework agreement. Microsoft will assist the Government with thought leadership and support in the development of a Cloud-First strategy, transform public service delivery through the adoption of our world leading technology, partner in the digital skilling of the public sector, and improve efficiencies and security in the provision of e-government services for citizens.