Senators press govt on digital inclusion gaps as eCitizen expansion hits 22K services
By Emmanuel Rono, June 2, 2026Senators have raised concerns over digital inequality and uneven access to government services as the Senate ICT Committee session scrutinised the pace and inclusivity of Kenya’s digital transformation programme.
Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy William Kabogo appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Information, Communication and Technology at the Parliament Buildings on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to defend the government’s progress in digitising public services and expanding online access.
The CS reported that more than 22,000 public services are now available through the eCitizen platform and related systems.
The senators questioned whether the rapid shift to digital platforms is leaving behind rural communities, the elderly, and citizens with limited internet access or digital literacy.
“During the engagement, Senators sought clarification on various issues relating to service delivery, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, interoperability of government platforms and the implementation of digital transformation programmes across national and county governments,” a statement by the parliament of Kenya read.
Strengthening cybersecurity governance
The Cabinet Secretary further updated the Committee on ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity governance and protect critical government digital infrastructure amid growing cyber threats.
He highlighted measures being undertaken to enhance cyber resilience, improve incident response mechanisms and strengthen collaboration among relevant government agencies responsible for safeguarding digital systems.
Progress in digital skills
CS Kabogo also outlined progress in digital skills development programmes targeting both public officers and citizens, noting that the Government is investing in capacity-building initiatives aimed at equipping Kenyans with the skills required to participate effectively in the digital economy.
The committee additionally received an update on the digitisation of government records, with the Ministry reporting ongoing efforts to modernise records management systems and accelerate the transition towards a paperless public service.
The meeting forms part of the Committee’s oversight role in monitoring the implementation of policies and programmes within the information, communication and technology sector.