The Nairobi County Government is embarking on a groundbreaking journey towards inclusive digital transformation and sustainable development through a collaborative effort with private sector industry leaders and International Development Partners, spearheaded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This strategic coalition aims to harness the power of data science to address existing paradoxes and complex challenges that can only be unraveled through scientific data analytics, including Artificial Intelligence. Notable participants in this collective effort include the World Bank, Safaricom Plc., GIZ, Meta, Google, Communications Authority, Ministry of Information and Technology, and other key stakeholders.

Anthony Ngororano, the Resident Representative of UNDP, underscored the significance of utilizing data science and technology to drive progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized that UNDP Kenya is committed to equipping Nairobi with the capacity to effectively utilize alternative data sources for precise development analytics.

Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri, speaking on behalf of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, expressed gratitude to the UNDP and the consortium of partners for their commitment to transforming Nairobi. He highlighted the shared goal of serving the people of Nairobi while ensuring transparency and accountability.

Njoroge Muchiri also assured the consortium of partners of the County Government’s dedication to harnessing alternative data sources, including the potential of Big Data Analytics. This data-driven approach is poised to foster development in a rapidly evolving urban landscape, promoting order, dignity, hope, and opportunity for all residents.

Kefa Omanga, Director for Donor Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement, elaborated on the diverse opportunities emerging from leveraging alternative data. These opportunities span a spectrum of critical domains, including healthcare, transportation, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, disaster risk reduction, and education.

Omanga emphasized, “It is time we invested in science to achieve the best returns on emerging opportunities in our city. Nairobi is undisputedly a pace setter nationally and in the region, making it imperative to ensure that it thrives.”

The coalition’s collaborative spirit was evident at the event, with representatives from various stakeholders present, including Anthony Ngororano, the UNDP-Resident Representative, Brian Mulama, County Executive for Mobility and Public Works, Victor Otieno, Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Startups, Diana Sang from the UN Foundation, Benjamin Makai from Safaricom, Dr. Tim Kelly from the World Bank, Winnie Karanu from Microsoft, and other key figures.

This partnership between the Nairobi County Government, private sector giants, and UNDP marks a significant stride towards utilizing data science and technology as catalysts for transformative change in the urban landscape. As the city of Nairobi navigates challenges and opportunities on its path to sustainable development, the convergence of expertise and resources holds the promise of a brighter future for all its residents.