Kenya Launches E-commerce Strategy

Kenya on Wednesday unveiled its National E-Commerce Strategy aimed at streamlining the rapidly expanding sector in response to the flourishing digital economy.

The National E-Commerce Strategy is a collaborative effort between the government, private sector stakeholders, and industry experts, aiming to harness the full potential of digital commerce in Kenya.

The strategy underscores Kenya’s commitment to becoming a regional hub for e-commerce as an enabler of domestic and export trade for enhanced income generation, employment creation and poverty reduction.

During the launch in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy, expressed that the strategy aims to transform the country into a regional e-commerce hub.

“This strategy will enhance access to global markets for Kenyan goods and services, especially for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by leveraging on e-commerce,” he said.

Owalo noted that Kenya had a solid foundation for the development of e-commerce, which includes the provision of free Wi-Fi hotspots provided by the government and robust mobile money transfer services.

This groundbreaking initiative is poised to revolutionize the landscape of digital trade through fostering innovation, inclusivity, and therefore, economic growth. The strategy rests on four pillars: Overhauling legal and regulatory frameworks, optimizing payment accessibility, refining trade logistics for seamless e-commerce fulfillment, and upholding standards for data privacy, protection, and consumer rights.

The also encompasses efforts to enhance digital skills among the Kenyan workforce and entrepreneurs. Additionally, it focuses on upgrading internet connectivity and e-commerce-related infrastructure nationwide.