West Pokot: West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has expressed optimism over the establishment of a modern digital Centre of Excellence in the county, stating its potential to address the increasing unemployment rates among the youth.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Kachapin hosted a team led by Konza Technopolis Chief Manager Construction, Operations Management Engineer Antony Sang, during a site tour for the planned digital Centre of Excellence. The Governor acknowledged previous challenges in securing the initial site at Bendera, Siyoi ward, as the 1.4 acres required could not be obtained due to logistical issues. Nonetheless, an alternative site at Tartar area within the same subcounty has been designated, allowing construction to proceed.
Governor Kachapin emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting government initiatives that promote economic empowerment through digital means. He highlighted the positive impact of open Wi-Fi hotspots, which have already enabled public internet access at various locations within the county.
Engineer Sang affirmed the government’s dedication to the digital economic blueprint, which involves establishing 1,450 digital units nationwide. The first phase targets the completion of 50 centres by the end of the Financial Year, with West Pokot set to benefit from one such centre in a local ward. Sang also mentioned the broader objectives of creating a Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy as part of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which aims to address youth-related issues and enhance sectors like education, healthcare, and agriculture through digital connectivity.
Contractor Timothy Makumi, responsible for piloting the first 50 centres, appealed to local communities for cooperation and assured the use of local manpower and materials during construction. Makumi expressed appreciation for the warm reception from West Pokot, noting it as the only county where they were welcomed by the Governor.