Eliud Owalo, the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy in Kenya, has announced a collaborative effort between the Ministry and Members of Parliament (MPs) to establish a digital hub in each of the approximately 1450 wards across the country. This ambitious initiative aims to equip Kenyan youth with digital skills and create opportunities for online employment, fostering a digitally literate and empowered generation.

During the launch of a digital hub in Kajiado East Constituency, Owalo highlighted the role of MPs in providing the necessary infrastructure for these hubs, while the national government will allocate resources to ensure a seamless training process for the youth. The objective is not only to impart digital skills but also to connect young individuals to a diverse range of online job opportunities, enhancing their employability and economic prospects.

The establishment of 1450 digital hubs at the ward level is a strategic move to address youth unemployment and reduce the phenomenon of rural-urban migration in search of job opportunities. By focusing on digital training and online employment, the Ministry aims to create a sustainable solution that enables youth to access job opportunities from anywhere, bridging the gap between rural and urban employment prospects.

CS Owalo emphasized the transformative impact of digital training, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the employment landscape in Kenya. By providing youth with the skills and resources to engage in online work, the initiative not only empowers individuals economically but also contributes to local economic development and reduces dependency on traditional job markets.

In addition to empowering youth, the Ministry is committed to supporting itinerary traders by introducing internet connectivity in markets to facilitate e-commerce activities. This initiative aims to enhance the trading capabilities of market vendors, particularly women engaged in itinerary trade, by enabling them to leverage digital platforms for business growth and expansion.

CS Owalo's vision aligns with the Jitume Programme launched by President William Ruto in December 2022, which seeks to build upon the success of existing digital enablement programs such as Ajira Digital and the Kenya Youth Employment Programme. By expanding access to digital skills training and online job opportunities, the government is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and digitally-driven economy that empowers individuals across various sectors and regions in Kenya.