Kenya has once again demonstrated its leadership in Africa’s digital transformation by convening the inaugural Domain Summit Africa in Nairobi, bringing together over 250 delegates from more than 30 countries, including government representatives, global internet institutions, registries, registrars, technology leaders, and policy experts.
Convened by the Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC), the summit marks a defining moment for Kenya, the region, and the global internet community as stakeholders unite to strengthen trusted digital infrastructure — the foundation upon which modern economies, innovation, and commerce now depend.
At the heart of the discussions is a shared recognition that domain names are no longer merely technical resources; they are economic assets that anchor digital identity, enable secure online trade, and unlock participation in the global digital marketplace. As businesses, institutions, and entrepreneurs increasingly move online, strong domain adoption directly supports enterprise growth, job creation, cross-border trade, and investment confidence.
Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, Hon. William Kabogo, when officially opening the summit, reaffirmed government support for the growth of Kenya’s digital ecosystem, recognizing KeNIC’s critical role in advancing domain adoption, strengthening internet penetration, and enabling economic activity. The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that a secure and trusted online environment is central to Kenya’s digital transformation agenda and to positioning the country as a regional technology and innovation hub.
The strong participation and collaborative spirit witnessed at the Domain Summit reflect growing global confidence in Kenya as a convening power for digital policy, infrastructure development, and multistakeholder cooperation. Outcomes from the summit are expected to accelerate digitization efforts, support innovation ecosystems, and expand opportunities for enterprises across Africa to compete globally.
The summit has created a powerful platform for collaboration between governments, registrars, and industry partners, opening new opportunities for innovation, partnerships, and expansion of Africa’s digital economy.
Domain registrars and technology providers are exploring new pathways to expand access, improve affordability, and accelerate uptake, ensuring that more businesses and public institutions establish trusted online presences.
KeNIC Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Lewela thanked Helmuts Meskonis for partnering with KeNIC to bring together country code Top Level Domain Registries to Kenya for the first event of its kind.
He pointed out the immense opportunities that abound for stakeholders and domain owners alike through collaborations growing domain awareness and positioning Kenya and Africa on the global stage for domain utility and uptake. He also thanked ICANN represented by Senior VP Bob Ochieng and Elimu Holdings CEO and KeNIC Board Director, Davis Waithaka for invaluable and continuous support in growing .KE domain uptake through a network of over 500 Registrars.
As the world’s economies continue to digitize, the Domain Summit underscores a clear message: investing in digital infrastructure and trusted online identity is no longer optional — it is fundamental to sustainable economic growth. Others present at the summit included Communications Authority of Kenya Director General, David Mugonyi and recently appointed Chief Executive Office at ICT Authority Jessy Kiveu Maruti and KeNIC Board Chairman, Paul Kariuki
Through KeNIC’s leadership and the collective commitment of partners, Kenya is helping shape a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous digital future for Africa and the world.
