NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 22 – Kenya is aligning the National E-Commerce Strategy to the East African e-commerce strategy, AfCFTA protocol on E-Commerce and UN Sustainable Development Goal no. 9.
Trade Principal Secretary Alfred K’Ombudo said the Government will align with international best practices and catalyse e-commerce by improving digital infrastructure, enhancing online payment systems and streamlining regulatory frameworks to facilitate seamless cross-border trade and ensure consumer protection.
K’Ombudo whose speech was read on his behalf by Timothy Were, the ICT Director at the State Department for Trade during the eCommerce Day East Africa said the public-private sector partnerships will drive sustainable development, create jobs and improve livelihoods.
K’Ombudo said revenues from e- commerce were projected to grow by over 6% in 2023 resulting in a projected volume of US$ 3.5B by 2027.
“ These figures portray Kenya’s e-commerce potential and capacity for job creation and poverty reduction objectives” said K’Ombudo.
K’Ombudo revealed that Kenya is developing a digital services export strategy as part of the strategy to position Kenya as the regional centre for excellence in digital innovation and digital services exports.
The eCommerce Day East Africa that is produced by the eCommerce Institute brings together public and private sector leaders to craft strategies focused on promoting the development of the digital commerce and internet business industry at a regional and global level and accelerating the incorporation of online channels by companies and entrepreneurs.
K’Ombudo said USAID, eTrade Alliance and the eCommerce Institute have been key in developing Kenya’s e-commerce sector.
Key development initiatives supported by USAID include Google Hustle Academy E-Commerce Training, Brighter Monday Kenya- Ebiz Kwa Vijana and eCommerce Day East Africa.
Other partners include GIZ, the Tony Blair Institute and Microsoft Corporation.
