The National Assembly is intensifying scrutiny of the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy over stalled initiatives, delayed laws, and weak execution that are slowing the country’s digital progress.
During a rigorous oversight session, the National Assembly’s Committee on Communication, Information, and Innovation pressed officials to account for how funds are being utilised, emphasising that every shilling must produce measurable benefits for citizens.
Committee Chairperson John Kiarie on Thursday highlighted the pressing challenges in connectivity and legislative delays, urging the ministry to ensure the sector is inclusive and accountable.
“While challenges remain, from delayed legislation to poor connectivity, our goal is to build a sector that is accountable, inclusive, and innovative, one where every citizen can access services and opportunities with ease,” he said.
Lawmakers sought detailed explanations on spending versus results, cautioning that poorly executed projects waste resources and prevent Kenyans from accessing essential digital services.
They questioned why key bills, including the ICT Authority Bill and the National Addressing Bill, remain pending despite the provision of funds.
Kiarie stressed that efficiency must be a priority. “Our responsibility is to ensure every shilling allocated to this sector transforms lives. We will not allow inefficiency or neglect to hold back Kenya’s digital future,” he said.
The committee also evaluated the performance of agencies under the ministry. MPs noted the slow rollout of programs by the Communications Authority of Kenya and criticised the suspension of child online protection initiatives as examples of mismanaged priorities. On infrastructure, the lawmakers reviewed billions allocated to fibre network expansion, highlighting interruptions caused by Kenya Power outages and calling for tighter inter-agency coordination. Projects such as Konza Technopolis are scheduled to resume on September 15 following agreements with contractors and the Communications Authority.
ICT hubs across the country were another focus, with MPs pointing out that despite allocated budgets, many hubs remain without devices or internet access, leaving students and communities digitally stranded. Connectivity challenges in prisons were also raised, as detainees lack basic ICT tools even as courts increasingly adopt virtual hearings. Officials assured the committee that plans to improve connectivity are in motion.
State corporations experiencing financial difficulties, including Kenya Broadcasting Corporation and Posta Kenya, were also reviewed. Lawmakers reiterated that funding must result in tangible outcomes, warning that stalled projects, weak oversight, and delayed legislation threaten the growth of the digital sector.
