Innovation
The quest for digital transformation in the country has received a shot in the arm with the launch of Tano Digital Solutions (TDS) which seeks to harness the transformative power of technology for the betterment of the digital future in the country.
TDS is a dynamic digital services company dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that have a meaningful social impact while delivering value for stakeholders which focus on speed, flexibility, and futurism, and also offers a range of products and services to clients across the African continent from cyber security to digital transformation.
Speaking during the event, Tano Digital Solutions Group CEO Tawanda Wallen said that the digital service company is committed to driving innovation and providing value for stakeholders and addressing the needs of the society.
He said that they are enhancing the offerings that are available in other countries to help grow Kenya’s digital space where TDS focuses on youth development, skills enhancement and bringing in new solutions and new technology into the market.
He added that through expertise, strategic partnerships, and tailored solutions TDS is well positioned to help businesses navigate the complexities of the digital frontier.
“At Tano Digital Solutions, we understand the critical role that cybersecurity plays in safeguarding businesses against evolving threats,” said Jane Wanja Murithi, Country General Manager at Tano Digital Solutions, Kenya.
She said that by staying ahead of the curve and leveraging the latest technologies, TDS is committed to provide clients with the robust cybersecurity solutions that meet their specific needs.
Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Okwiri said, “we are living in era when information reigns supreme and the digital landscape evolves at an unprecedented pace and the potential of digital innovation to drive economic growth, foster societal progress, and enhance the quality of life for the citizens.”
He noted that Kenya is the leader in the African continent when it comes to access to digital infrastructure while adding that the country’s ICT sector has on average grown by 10.8 percent annually since 2016 and its digital economy is expected to contribute to 9.24 percent of the country’s GDP by 2025.
The CEO acknowledged that in 2006, only 26.7 percent of Kenyans had access to formal financial services which tripled after ten years through financial services which include M-Pesa that offers phone-based money transfers while he noted that 98 percent of Kenyans use mobile money and 65 percent have access to the internet.
“Compared to other African countries, Kenya ranks high in ICT skills development. These skills range from basic digital literacy, such as knowing how to use mobile phones, the internet or social media, to advanced skills in data analytics, app development and network management,” he said.
Okwiri said that Konza’s priority is to enhance the digital economy by ensuring it provides a thriving environment for innovation, with a special effort being channeled towards supporting start-ups as it plays the role of the thought leader in innovation, technology and investment.
He added that Konza is providing an environment of research and development through the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) which enrolls students who seek to undertake research in Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics at the graduate level.
“The idea is to ensure that the academia, industry and government can all converge to do research and development to provide solutions to our current challenges,” said Okwiri.
He noted that KAIST is being mentored in Korea to ensure the country is able to move from the usual pillar of the economy to the technological and innovation-led level which can only be achieved through research.
He said that the entrance of Tano Digital into the Kenyan market signifies a pivotal moment in the nation’s digital journey as it enhances digital trust in Africa due to their Pan-African resources and over 15 years of experience operating in Kenya.
“Their innovative solutions promise to empower businesses, streamline operations, and enhance the efficiency of our digital ecosystem,” Okwiri said while urging the stakeholders to embrace innovation and remain committed to protecting the digital frontier.
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