Gina M. Raimondo Secretary of Commerce | Ballotpedia
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy Eliud Owalo have come together to announce a partnership aimed at harnessing AI, facilitating data flows, and empowering digital upskilling. The joint statement released by the United States Department of Commerce and the Kenyan Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy highlighted their shared commitment to strengthening the digital economy and promoting innovation between the two nations.
During the AmCham Business Summit: U.S.-East Africa Trade & Investment Forum, Secretary Raimondo and Cabinet Secretary Owalo emphasized the potential benefits of the digital economy, including economic growth, job creation, and fostering an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable digital future for citizens globally.
"We are excited about the prospect of U.S. companies investing in Kenya as a digital hub, including the establishment of data centers, to support businesses and citizens in Kenya and throughout the region," stated Secretary Raimondo and Cabinet Secretary Owalo.
Recognizing the transformative possibilities of artificial intelligence (AI), both leaders underscored the importance of harnessing AI for good while mitigating its risks. They also highlighted the crucial role of data privacy, data protection, and cross-border data transfers in developing critical technologies like AI.
Investing in the digital capacity of the workforce was identified as a critical step towards realizing the potential of digitalization and AI. The joint statement stressed the importance of human capital development in facilitating inclusive access to digital skills and empowering a skilled workforce to actively participate in the digital economy.
Secretary Raimondo and Minister Owalo welcomed cooperation in areas such as Data Protection and Cross-Border Data Transfers, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Upskilling. They expressed their intention to promote the adoption of policies that support interoperability between privacy regimes and identify areas of cooperation in approaches to AI.
The joint statement issued by the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Kenyan Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy emphasized their commitment to enhancing digital trade and investment while respecting their rights and obligations under international agreements.
Overall, the partnership between the United States and Kenya signifies a collaborative effort to advance digital innovation, promote economic growth, and empower the workforce for a digital future.
