Nairobi Will Be Epicenter for Africa’s Technological Take-Off, Says Chesosi
Chairman of Intellimedia Networks Africa, Alex Chesosi, is confident that Nairobi will serve as the epicenter for Africa’s technological take-off. Chesosi commends the government’s substantial investments in information and communication technologies (ICT) since independence, particularly former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s efforts in accelerating technological advancements. Under President William Ruto’s current administration, the focus is on economic take-off and bridging the digital divide.
Chesosi lauds President Ruto’s ambitious plan to lay 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable and establish 25,000 hotspots, believing that it will revolutionize connectivity in Kenya. He sees ICT as the cornerstone of Kenya’s next growth trajectory and predicts a significant ICT revolution in the country. Chesosi highlights the leadership of fintech within Kenya’s tech ecosystem and notes the country’s global standing in technology startups, foreseeing that mass adoption of technology will catalyze regional prosperity.
President Ruto’s commitment to providing laptops for school children aligns with the administration’s focus on investing in the education system. Chesosi envisions Kenya becoming a formidable force in the region’s technology landscape with the support of the ICT ministry and sustained investor interest.
Recognizing ample investment opportunities for internet service providers in the region, Chesosi emphasizes the need for tax-friendly policies to attract foreign capital. Global tech giants such as Google, HP, IBM, Microsoft, and Elon Musk’s Starlink already have a presence in Kenya, signaling its attractiveness for tech investments.
Drawing on his extensive experience in the aviation, fintech, and energy sectors, Chesosi asserts that Kenya is poised to shine on the global stage, boasting a stable economy and a 5.4% GDP growth rate in Q2 2023. He underlines the importance of deploying the internet through a private cellular network to advance Kenya’s internet penetration and emphasizes the crucial role of good governance and transparency to attract future investors.
Chesosi identifies the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the next growth market, challenging perceptions of Africa as a dark continent. He urges African business leaders to invest in solid companies with proper checks and balances, highlighting the substantial capital outlay required to break even in the tech industry.
In conclusion, with its favorable investment climate, significant government-led initiatives, and advancements in fintech, Kenya is poised to become a leading technological hub in Africa. To fully realize its potential, the country must continue to prioritize ICT development, foster a conducive business environment, and attract foreign investments through favorable policies.
