The forum focused on expanding digital infrastructure, including fibre networks, 5G connectivity, private networks, data centres and cloud services.
Discussions also prioritised fintech innovation, leveraging Kenya’s mobile money ecosystem and regulatory environment to boost cross-border digital growth.
Both countries agreed on the need to strengthen digital skills development through institutional partnerships and innovation ecosystems.
By Obegi Malack
Kenya and Finland have strengthened cooperation in the digital economy following a high-level business forum that brought together government and private sector leaders from both countries, led by President William Ruto and President Alexander Stubb, to explore new investment and innovation opportunities.
According to a statement from the Kenya Investment Authority (InvestKenya), the Kenya–Finland Business Forum focused on enhancing collaboration in digital trade, infrastructure development, and skills advancement.
The discussions prioritised expanding secure and affordable connectivity through fibre networks, 5G, and private networks, as well as scaling data centres and cloud infrastructure to support artificial intelligence and digital public services.
The statement noted that Kenya’s ICT sector contributes about 9% to GDP, with the digital economy projected to exceed USD 12 billion by 2026, supported by strong connectivity and a leading mobile money ecosystem.
Key discussions also centred on advancing fintech and digital financial innovation, leveraging Kenya’s mobile money infrastructure and a supportive regulatory environment to promote cross-border digital growth and investment. Both sides further emphasised the need to strengthen digital skills development through institutional partnerships and increased investment in innovation ecosystems.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to deepening technology and innovation partnerships with Kenya, highlighting the role of digital cooperation in driving economic transformation.
President William Ruto, who was on a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Stubb, said the engagement would deepen economic ties between the two countries and unlock new opportunities for investment and job creation.
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