Kenya recently hosted a high-level roundtable themed “Unlocking Kenya’s Startup Potential: Opportunities & Challenges.” The event was organized by UNDP Kenya in partnership with 500 Global, brought together key players from Kenya’s and Egypt’s innovation ecosystems. These include government officials and investors to startup enablers and policy experts.
The dialogue forms part of the “Bridging Cairo to Nairobi” initiative, a larger effort aimed at encouraging cross-border partnerships that can power Africa’s next wave of startup growth.
Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, Principal Secretary at the State Department of ICT and the Digital Economy, was among those who spoke at the session. He shared Kenya’s vision for building its digital economy.
PS Tanui added that for Kenya to unlock its startup potential, there has to be accompanying investments in infrastructure, talent, and innovation support. He said the government is prioritizing these four key areas:
- Expanding national digital infrastructure and connectivity.
- Digitizing government services.
- Creating a software and startup ecosystem.
- Developing smart cities and building a knowledge-based economy.
These efforts are already taking shape through institutions like the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).
“KAIST will significantly accelerate the maturity of Kenya’s and Africa’s innovation ecosystem, bridging science, enterprise and startup growth,” said PS Tanui.
The roundtable explored how Kenya and Egypt can share lessons, co-invest, and scale impact. The discussion was moderated by Ezzeddin Zahzah, Program Director at 500 Global Egypt, and included insights from both public and private sector leaders.
Also Read: 10 Startups Shortlisted in First-Ever Startup World Cup Kenya Finals
