NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 25 – Google’s products and services generated an estimated $900 million (Sh116.3 billion) for Kenya’s economy in 2023, according to a new report titled “The Digital Opportunity of Kenya.”
The report highlights how Google tools such as Search, Workspace, YouTube, Cloud, and Ads empowered businesses, nonprofits, creators, and developers, transforming Kenya’s economic landscape.
Key findings include significant productivity gains, with knowledge workers saving 5.5 million hours annually using Google tools, contributing $98 million to national productivity.
The report also noted that over 300,000 young Kenyans gained digital skills through Google Search, enhancing their employability and workforce capabilities.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is projected to contribute $2.4 billion to Kenya’s economy by 2030, underscoring the importance of investing in AI, cloud computing, and digital connectivity to maximize the potential of Kenya’s digital economy.
Agnes Gathaiya, Google Kenya Country Director, praised the country’s progress in digital transformation.
“Kenya’s digital transformation reflects the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of its people,” she stated.
The report offered recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the need to strengthen STEM education, increase AI fluency, and enhance digital infrastructure to prepare the workforce for an AI-driven future.
Stanley Kamanguya, CEO of the ICT Authority of Kenya, lauded Google’s contributions to the country’s digital economy.
“Google’s significant role demonstrates the power of technology to drive economic prosperity. Our collaboration with Google aims to unlock further opportunities for growth and innovation,” he noted.
Amy Price, Director of Technology Policy at Public First, stressed the importance of sustained investment in technology.
“Our research shows that tech investment will be a powerful catalyst for Kenya’s growth, particularly in connectivity, cloud computing, and AI,” she said.
The report underscores Google’s pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s digital economy and highlights the country’s growing potential as a digital leader in Africa.
