By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Kenya has outlined its
priorities for the global telecommunications sector at the opening of the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026
(PP-26) in Doha, Qatar, with a focus on reliable and affordable connectivity,
resilient digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI) capacity and the
implementation of existing international agreements.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary
for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, H.E. William Kabogo
Gitau, led the country’s delegation at the formal meeting of Heads of
Delegation and the opening ceremony of the conference.
According to Kabogo, the
Heads of Delegation agreed on arrangements for the conference, including
proposals for its leadership and committees, before the formal opening brought
together ITU Member States to determine the organisation’s strategic and financial
plans for the next four years.
The conference will also
oversee elections for the ITU leadership, the Council and the Radio Regulations
Board.
Kabogo said Kenya was
participating with clear priorities aimed at strengthening the country's
digital development agenda and contributing to international telecommunications
policy.
These priorities include
reliable and affordable connectivity, resilient infrastructure, shared capacity
in artificial intelligence and practical support for implementing agreements
already reached by the international community.
Kenya is also expected to
present its policy position during the conference's Plenary session, with
Kabogo scheduled to deliver the country's policy statement the following day.
He expressed appreciation to
the State of Qatar for hosting the conference, which brings together
governments and other stakeholders to shape the future direction of global
telecommunications and digital development.
