Stakeholders in Kenya’s ICT sector have issued a stern warning to the government regarding the proposed ICT Bill of 2024. The contentious bill mandates that individuals intending to provide ICT services to any entity must apply for accreditation from the ICT Authority.
This proposal has faced significant resistance in the past, notably in 2022 when former President Uhuru Kenyatta declined to approve it after it passed through Parliament. Industry concerns at the time included fears that the bill would stifle innovation by excluding certain IT professionals, trainees, and aspiring youth from the sector.
Several stakeholders voiced their concerns to Citizen TV, arguing that requiring ICT accreditation could deter investors. “It will definitely scare away investors who see Kenya as a growing tech hub with flexible regulations where they can come and set up their businesses and encourage innovation,” said Phylian Karinge, ICT Product Manager at Agri Bora. “More barriers mean investors will seek easier environments elsewhere.”
Ben Roberts, Group Chief Technology Officer at Liquid Telecom, echoed these sentiments, highlighting potential regulatory overlaps. “We already have the KIA Act establishing the Communications Authority as the regulator. Introducing more accreditation requirements could lead to confusion and inefficiencies,” he stated.
Stakeholders emphasized that any amendments to ICT regulations should address specific challenges without imposing undue restrictions. They urged the government to maintain flexibility in ICT operations, allowing innovation to flourish. “The ICT Authority really needs to focus because when you try to do everything, you end up doing nothing,” said Software Engineer David Lemaiyan.
Karinge further stressed Kenya’s role as a major tech hub in Africa and a leader in AI innovation. “We want to streamline standards, but it’s crucial to have flexible regulations that don’t stifle innovation,” she said.
ICT stakeholders plan to continue advocating for their position across various platforms, including X, which has become a vital space for civic engagement.